Visit to Confluence Park

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Although not formally part of the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve—whose primary goal is recovery the threatened desert tortoise—Confluence Park is part of the Washington County HCP (Habitat Conservation Plan). A Google map, and the left and center information panels for visitors at the park entrance should allow you to get your bearings. There is an additional online human history of the park. The area was tranquil on the day of our Sunday out in warm afternoon sunshine. Lots of old growth trees—many of them marked with blue paint daubs, which probably means they are to receive attention soon—with overwintering Rabbitbrush, grasses, and canes glowing against the light.

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Devotees of the Cactaceae (aka Opuntiaceae, aka Leuchtenbergiaceae) family of plants should stay alert.

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