Vole Fest Returns March 21 to Celebrate Desert Conservation Near Beatty

A small, mouse-like rodent that was once thought extinct is at the center of a free, day-long desert celebration returning to the Amargosa Basin this Saturday. Friends of the Amargosa Basin is hosting the 3rd Annual Vole Fest on March 21, with events spread across Shoshone and Tecopa from 10 a.m. through 9:30 p.m.

Named for the Amargosa vole, a blonde-to-dark-brown rodent averaging 8 inches in length that was discovered in 1900 and believed extinct until it was found again roughly three decades later, the festival weaves conservation science into a full day of community programming. Cameron Mayer, FAB's executive director, said this year's theme, "Celebrating Desert Communities," emphasizes the interconnectedness of people with everything else that makes up the desert environment.

"Vole Fest is our way of celebrating this special place, raising awareness about conservation in the Amargosa Basin, and bringing visitors and residents together for a fun and educational experience," Mayer said. "The festival offers a chance for visitors to engage with vole scientists, conservationists, local organizations, and community members while learning about Amargosa voles in the broader context of a complex desert ecosystem."

The day opens with Morning Field Excursions from 10 a.m. to noon at the Shoshone and Tecopa wetlands. Participants should meet at the Shoshone marsh trail adjacent to the campground and pool at 22 Highway 178 in Shoshone. The excursions cover desert life, habitat change and restoration, and scientific study in action at designated stations. Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, sunglasses, binoculars, and lunch.

Afternoon programming runs from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Tecopa Community Center, 400 Tecopa Hot Springs Road. Vole scientists and local wildlife experts will lead discussions, with hands-on activities, educational outreach tables, photo opportunities, and prize giveaways rounding out the session. Snacks and refreshments will be provided.

The evening closes with a star party from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Shoshone Campground and RV Park, 22 CA-178, organized in collaboration with the Las Vegas Astronomical Society. Participants should head to the field on the north side of the campground near the office building, where signage and lighting will direct attendees to the event space; parking and restrooms are nearby.

The entire event is free. More information on the Las Vegas Astronomical Society is available at lvastronomy.org, and Friends of the Amargosa Basin can be found through their website and social channels.