Research and Collaboration to Improve Amargosa Vole Conservation in the Lower Amargosa River

Human development and climate change have led to the loss of wetland vegetation and altered hydrology in the Amargosa River watershed. This project conducted scientific research to support the conservation of the Amargosa vole population and the restoration of their wetland habitats. Efforts included developing population and habitat projections, conducting field and lab experiments on diet and social interactions, mapping water inputs, and partially restoring five acres of marsh to increase bulrush and wetland habitats for the vole and other bird species. A captive breeding program was initiated at UC Davis to translocate and reintroduce voles to their suitable, historical habitats. The project was a collaborative partnership that involves three federal agencies (USFWS, BLM, and USGS).