2008 Fall Green-Up Volunteer Event

The newly-complete Upper Diversion Weir and Bridge hosted the 2008 Fall Green-Up at the Las Vegas Wash (Wash) September 27, 2008.  After volunteers checked in, a delicious lunch provided them with the energy they’d need for an afternoon full of digging and planting.  Volunteers and organizers dispersed to the weir’s north side and to the island to plant 12.5 acres with 11 different types of plants native to the Las Vegas Valley.  With the largest variety of plants ever, the colored coded flagging system for matching plants to their holes was more important that ever.  So when volunteers see a green flag in a hole, signals that a brittlebush plant should be planted there. Healthy native vegetation provides much-needed habitat for indigenous species of wildlife that call the Wash their home, making Wash Green-Ups integral to the vitality of the Wash. 

Site supervisors demonstrated planting technique to help expedite revegetation and educate volunteers.  A well-planted shrub has a better chance of long-term survival, and tips from site supervisors emphasized this point.  Volunteers and participants included girl and boy scouts, their parents, local businesses and philanthropic organizations, and Las Vegas area families.  Even the youngest volunteers found satisfaction in working to beautify the Wash.  Site supervisors were also available to answer any question pertaining to Wash wildlife, water conservation and the future of the Wash.

Thanks to all who attended the 2008 Fall Green-Up, the event was a success because of the addition of 4,960 more plants to the Wash.  Because of the work of volunteers, planting went smoothly.  Biologist will monitor the site in the coming months to ensure growth and to plant another 10 acres around the weir.  When planting is complete and shrubs establish a root-hold, the Upper Diversion Weir and Bridge will become a favorite spot for hikers and bikers.   For more information about the Wash, continue to visit www.lvwash.org.

Volunteers gather to check-in.

Young volunteers work hard too!

Volunteers disburse to planting sites.

Young volunteers proud of their work!

Almost 5,000 plants were planted.

Volunteer hard at work!

Volunteers dig in deep!