SUBMITTED NEWS RELEASE
ELKO — The Humboldt River of northern Nevada has been scorned by many, praised by few. This free presentation at the California Trail Center on Thursday April 1, 2010 at 7:00 pm will glorify that which there is to be praised, though some scorn will be reserved. One of the truly unique features of the Humboldt River is that is one of the longest rivers in the world that does not drain into an ocean or sea. This fact places it as a central feature of the Great Basin of the intermountain west, defined as an area of internal drainage. Where does it start; where does it end? Why does it not go to a sea? Mike McFarlane, Vice President of Great Basin College, will discuss these topics and more.
In addition to the mysteries of the river itself, there is also much to behold along its route. There are many points of interest that existed eons before the river came into being. The river tells tales of tropical seas, crushed mountain ranges, and vast inland lakes. And when did the river come into being? Well, let’s just say that it’s older than the hills, literally. Photos will be shown that demonstrate the relationship of the river to the landscape through which it flows, and of which it is a part and helped to create.
While following the route of the Humboldt in the 19th century, many travelers scorned it for poor water, sparse forage, and dust. But, if this sliver of water had not carved the trace that it did, what would the alternative have been for these voyagers?
The California Trail Interpretive Center, operated by the Bureau of Land Management, is located eight miles west of Elko at Hunter Exit 292. The Trail Center offers a meeting room and tours of the Center are available to school groups and other organizations on a prearranged basis. Contact Center Director David Jamiel at (775) 482-4718 or Park Ranger Gary Koy at (775) 934-2467 or e-mail [email protected] and to find out more about the California Trail Center and the History along the Humboldt series of talks.
