Management of Subterranean Ecosystems in Extreme Environments
Monte Neva Hot Springs

Map coordinates:  39.4603, -114.037
Water temperature:   79.7°F
Site ID:   MI-009

Gandy Warm Springs

Gandy Warm Springs. Image courtesy of Daniel Veelik, SoCal Grotto.

Gandy Warm Springs is a refreshing oasis of tiny waterfalls, pools, caves, and crystal clear streams with water temperatures up to 81°F. Located on the western edge of Snake Valley, near the Nevada border, the springs are at the base of the southern tip of Spring Mountain (also called Gandy Mountain). The spring water that cascades down the slope of Spring Mountain joins a larger spring that emerges from a cave, initiating the eastward-flowing Warm Creek (also called Gandy Creek). Lush green vegetation, including mosses, watercress, and bright green algae, and animals such as aquatic snails (including the endemic springsnail, Pyrgulopsis saxatilis, found only at Gandy) and the native speckled dace wonderfully stand in stark contrast to the surrounding dry yellow grasses and desert shrubs. Gandy is a popular spot for locals who use the area for soaking, swimming, and baptisms.

Given the small size of Spring Mountain, a cluster of hills extending a mile north-to-south and rising just 1000 feet above the surrounding landscape, as well as the noticeably dry climate, one is amazed when considering the voluminous output of Gandy Warm Springs. Every minute, the springs discharge nearly 9000 gallons of water. In other words, Gandy Warm Springs can fill 20 Olympic-sized swimming pools every day.

Gandy_Warm_Springs.pdf Get Topo Map On the Web New Hotspring Search

Gandy Warm Springs


Geochemistry


  1. Sample date:unknown
  2. Sodium (Na):29
  3. Potassium (K):3.7
  4. Lab-test pH:n/a
  5. Calcium (Ca):50
  6. Total dissolved solids:300
  7. Magnesium (Mg):18
  8. Iron (Fe):n/a
  9. Strontium (Sr):n/a
  10. Lithium (Li):n/a
  11. Boron (B):n/a
  12. Silica (SiO2):21
  13. Bicarbonate (HCO3):250
  14. Sulfate (SO4):29
  15. Chloride (Cl):26
  16. Fluoride (F):0.699

Resources


Image by Dr. Jean K. Krejca, Zara Environmental LLC

Cave ecosystems are often dependent on organic material carried in by water, which serves as the primary food source for the environment. In arid climates with minimal surface rainfall, the input of organic matter and nutrients into caves becomes limited, affecting the overall energy flow within these environments. The intricate interplay between surface conditions and cave biota presents unique management challenges for modern cave biologists. Image courtesy of Dr. Jean K. Krejca, Zara Environmental LLC.

Lexington Arch

Lexington Arch

Great Basin National Park is home to Lexington Arch, one of the largest limestone arches in the western United States. This six-story arch was created by the forces of weather working slowly over the span of centuries. This type of above ground limestone arch is rare.

Symposium Merchandise

Campfire Coffee Mug

Stay up all night with our personalized ceramic coffee mug. This 13oz mug is perfect for school, campfire socials, marathon thesis proofreading, and all-night grant-writing sessions.

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