A shrub that is crushed but not dead at the Gemini Solar Project

A creosote shrub at the Gemini Solar Project that is crushed but expected to revive. The Gemini Solar Project developed measures to avoid, minimize and mitigate impacts to the environment during construction and operation by using alternative construction techniques to minimize negative effects on plants and soils, including the "Drive and Crush" method instead of "Blade and Grade." "Blade and Grade" removes all vegetation and compacts the soil. USGS collaborates with the Bureau of Land Management on research at this array. Photo by Claire Karban, USGS.