Hydrologic and aquatic habitat restoration at Fairbanks and Soda Springs, Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge to improve habitat quality for the Ash Meadows pupfish, Cyprinodon nevadensis mionectes, Ash Meadows speckled dace, Rhinichthys osculus nevadensis, and thermal endemic invertebrate species

Authors: Robert J. Andress, Sharon D. McKelvey, Cristi R. Baldino, Darrick S. Weissenfluh, Gayton G. Scoppettone

Year: 2009 (xli)

Abstract

Fairbanks and Soda springs are critical components in the hydrologic restoration of the Upper Carson Slough. These springs are the first to discharge into the Upper Carson Slough. Presently, the Fairbanks and Soda Spring stream channels are contained in irrigation ditches and the once extensive wetland that was supported by these springs is desiccated. Restoration of Fairbanks and Soda springs will be the first step in restoring the Upper Carson Slough to a semblance of its historic condition. Approximately 2 miles of spring outflow channel will be restored at Fairbanks Spring. Approximately 0.5 miles of spring outflow channel will be restored at Soda springs. The restoration of Fairbanks and Soda springs will result in the recovery of 150+ acres of emergent marsh and wetland habitat and will restore habitat for the Ash Meadows pupfish Cyprinodon nevadensis mionectes and the Ash Meadows speckled dace Rhinichthys osculus nevadensis as well as thermal endemic invertebrate species. R. osculus nevadensis is presently limited to two populations in the southern half of Ash Meadows. Habitat alteration has prevented the reintroduction R. osculus nevadensis into most of its historic habitat. The proposed restoration actions will allow the repatriation of R. osculus nevadensis at Fairbanks Spring and will safeguard against extinction.