Racetrack Playa

Desert saltbush (Atriplex L. [USDA, 2010h]) grows around a pit on the Racetrack Playa (shown here flooded). This pit provides one of the few water sources for wildlife in the valley. Debate remains about the origin of the pit. It may have been a natural seep or desiccation fissure on the playa or a hole dug for stock by early miners. Both are likely true. During the winter and in the late summer the pit is often full of water. Other pits surrounded by saltbush are nearby. Animal bones are common around these pits. The closest other perennial springs are probably on Hunter Mountain or in Saline Valley, many miles away.