.. Jalbum 8.6 slides/cowiche_wildflowers1.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 We own 6.5 acres of Sagebrush Steppe on Cowiche Creek that we have left native. Every Spring the native wildflowers produce their colorful bloom. The many different varieties and colors are typical of sagebrush wildflowers and have a beauty not found in the manicured garden. I hope you enjoy a close up look at some of mother natures flowers from this piece of undisturbed Sagebrush land. We own 6.5 acres of Sagebrush Steppe on Cowiche Creek that we have left native. Every Spring the native wildflowers produce their colorful bloom. The many different varieties and colors are typical of sagebrush wildflowers and have a beauty not found in the manicured garden. I hope you enjoy a close up look at some of mother natures flowers from this piece of undisturbed Sagebrush land. slides/cowiche_wildflowers1.jpg slides/aster_eaton.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Eaton Aster (Symphyotrichum eatonii) Likes moist areas, found on the creek banks. Grows to over 3' tall with many flowers on each plant. One of the last wildflowers to bloom in the late Summer. Eaton Aster (Symphyotrichum eatonii) Likes moist areas, found on the creek banks. Grows to over 3' tall with many flowers on each plant. One of the last wildflowers to bloom in the late Summer. slides/aster_eaton.jpg slides/aster_prairie.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Tufted White Prairie Aster (Symphyotrichum ericoides) The small flowers grow along long stems that tend to droop under their weight. Normally has several stems per plant. Tufted White Prairie Aster (Symphyotrichum ericoides) The small flowers grow along long stems that tend to droop under their weight. Normally has several stems per plant. slides/aster_prairie.jpg slides/balsamroot_careys.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Carey's Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza careyana) This variety commonly has shining, varnished looking leaves, only a small amount of hair on the involucre and multiple flowers heads per stem. Carey's Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza careyana) This variety commonly has shining, varnished looking leaves, only a small amount of hair on the involucre and multiple flowers heads per stem. slides/balsamroot_careys.jpg slides/bitterbrush.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Antelope Bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata) Often grows mixed with the Sagebrush, being the same size and shape. It has pretty yellow flowers and deep green Sagebrush like leaves. Often mistaken for Sagebrush when it is not in bloom, but has deeper green leaves. Antelope Bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata) Often grows mixed with the Sagebrush, being the same size and shape. It has pretty yellow flowers and deep green Sagebrush like leaves. Often mistaken for Sagebrush when it is not in bloom, but has deeper green leaves. slides/bitterbrush.jpg slides/bittercress_western.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Little Western Bittercress (Cardamine oligosperma) This small wildflower likes moister ground and sends out seed siliques that shoot out seeds when ripe. Little Western Bittercress (Cardamine oligosperma) This small wildflower likes moister ground and sends out seed siliques that shoot out seeds when ripe. slides/bittercress_western.jpg slides/blueeyed_mary.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Small-flowered Blue-eyed Mary (Collinsia parviflora) One of those pretty little wildflowers that doesn't give up its true beauty until you look close. Can you see the two little eyes? Small-flowered Blue-eyed Mary (Collinsia parviflora) One of those pretty little wildflowers that doesn't give up its true beauty until you look close. Can you see the two little eyes? slides/blueeyed_mary.jpg slides/bouncingbet.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Bouncingbet (Saponaria officinalis) This pretty wildflower was brought over from England and now is found throughout the USA. Likes to grow in clumps. The flowers grow at the end of a long tube. Bouncingbet (Saponaria officinalis) This pretty wildflower was brought over from England and now is found throughout the USA. Likes to grow in clumps. The flowers grow at the end of a long tube. slides/bouncingbet.jpg slides/buckwheat_parsnip.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Parsnip-flowered Buckwheat (Eriogonum heracleoides) A very showy buckwheat often grows near Sagebrush and contrasts with it. The buds are often pink before opening. This is the most common buckwheat on our property. Parsnip-flowered Buckwheat (Eriogonum heracleoides) A very showy buckwheat often grows near Sagebrush and contrasts with it. The buds are often pink before opening. This is the most common buckwheat on our property. slides/buckwheat_parsnip.jpg slides/buckwheat_strictw.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Strict Buckwheat (Eriogonum strictum var. proliferum) Often grows mixed in with Sagebrush, this buckwheat has grayish fuzzy leaves and long stems. This variety often has a tinge of purple in the petals as it matures. Strict Buckwheat (Eriogonum strictum var. proliferum) Often grows mixed in with Sagebrush, this buckwheat has grayish fuzzy leaves and long stems. This variety often has a tinge of purple in the petals as it matures. slides/buckwheat_strictw.jpg slides/buckwheat_stricty.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Strict Buckwheat (Eriogonum strictum var. anserina) This Buckwheat is very similiar to proliferum and looks just like it, but is yellow. It often grows with proliferum and is almost like a color variation of it. Strict Buckwheat (Eriogonum strictum var. anserina) This Buckwheat is very similiar to proliferum and looks just like it, but is yellow. It often grows with proliferum and is almost like a color variation of it. slides/buckwheat_stricty.jpg slides/buckwheat_rock.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Rock Buckwheat (Eriogonum sphaerocephalum) This buckwheat often grows in rocky ground, hence the name. The many ivory to yellow flowers often give the plant a mound look. A very pretty plant when seen from a distance. Rock Buckwheat (Eriogonum sphaerocephalum) This buckwheat often grows in rocky ground, hence the name. The many ivory to yellow flowers often give the plant a mound look. A very pretty plant when seen from a distance. slides/buckwheat_rock.jpg slides/buckwheat_tall.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Tall Buckwheat (Eriogonum elatum) At first look, the leaves look like Carey's Balsamroot, but it sends up a flower stem about 3' high which makes many pretty flowerheads. Tall Buckwheat (Eriogonum elatum) At first look, the leaves look like Carey's Balsamroot, but it sends up a flower stem about 3' high which makes many pretty flowerheads. slides/buckwheat_tall.jpg slides/buckwheat_slender.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Slender Buckwheat (Eriogonum microthecum) Looks like a small bush that grows amongst the Sagebrush. Has small green leaves and many small flowers that bloom like Elderberries at the top of the bush. The last of the buckwheats to bloom in mid July. Slender Buckwheat (Eriogonum microthecum) Looks like a small bush that grows amongst the Sagebrush. Has small green leaves and many small flowers that bloom like Elderberries at the top of the bush. The last of the buckwheats to bloom in mid July. slides/buckwheat_slender.jpg slides/buttercup_sagebrush.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Sagebrush Buttercup (Ranunculus glaberrimus) One of the first wildflowers out in Spring. It speckles the landscape with brightly varnished yellow flowers and its succulent green leaves. Sagebrush Buttercup (Ranunculus glaberrimus) One of the first wildflowers out in Spring. It speckles the landscape with brightly varnished yellow flowers and its succulent green leaves. slides/buttercup_sagebrush.jpg slides/camas_death.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Panicled Death Camas (Zigadenus paniculatus) Death Camas looks a lot like Hyacinths except for the blooms. Probably not the best plant to try eating, it is poisonous to livestock and very common in the early Spring. Panicled Death Camas (Zigadenus paniculatus) Death Camas looks a lot like Hyacinths except for the blooms. Probably not the best plant to try eating, it is poisonous to livestock and very common in the early Spring. slides/camas_death.jpg slides/campion_white.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 White Campion (Silene latifolia ssp. alba) Also called Evening Lychnis. This pretty little white flower has big bulbs or ballons behind the flowers. It is not-native, but is not invasive. Sometimes called Balloon Campion. White Campion (Silene latifolia ssp. alba) Also called Evening Lychnis. This pretty little white flower has big bulbs or ballons behind the flowers. It is not-native, but is not invasive. Sometimes called Balloon Campion. slides/campion_white.jpg slides/chaenactis.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Douglas' Dusty Maiden (Chaenactis douglasii) I always thought this plant looked like a weed, but it is a wildflower and can be attractive if you catch it right. Douglas' Dusty Maiden (Chaenactis douglasii) I always thought this plant looked like a weed, but it is a wildflower and can be attractive if you catch it right. slides/chaenactis.jpg slides/cherry_choke.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Choke Cherry (Prunus virginiana) A native cherry tree, pretty in the Spring, covered with white cones of flowers. Bitter tasting fruit, hence the name. Choke Cherry (Prunus virginiana) A native cherry tree, pretty in the Spring, covered with white cones of flowers. Bitter tasting fruit, hence the name. slides/cherry_choke.jpg slides/cherry_chokef.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Choke Cherry (Prunus virginiana) A native cherry tree, pretty in the Spring, covered with red, then black berries as the flower cones mature. These are very bitter to eat. Choke Cherry (Prunus virginiana) A native cherry tree, pretty in the Spring, covered with red, then black berries as the flower cones mature. These are very bitter to eat. slides/cherry_chokef.jpg slides/colomia_largeflowered.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Large-flowered Collomia (Collomia grandiflora) A different colored wildflower with its salmon colored blossoms and pretty leaves. Very delicate and hard to catch in bloom. Large-flowered Collomia (Collomia grandiflora) A different colored wildflower with its salmon colored blossoms and pretty leaves. Very delicate and hard to catch in bloom. slides/colomia_largeflowered.jpg slides/colomia_narrowleaf.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Narrow-leaf Collomia (Collomia linearis) These look a lot like the Large-flowered Collomia that is more common here. They have much smaller pink flowers. Narrow-leaf Collomia (Collomia linearis) These look a lot like the Large-flowered Collomia that is more common here. They have much smaller pink flowers. slides/colomia_narrowleaf.jpg slides/cryptantha_obscure.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Obscure Cryptantha (Cryptantha ambigua) A small Cryptantha that makes a sprawling plant with small white flowers. This annual wildflower has many spreading arms with hairy leaves and stems. Obscure Cryptantha (Cryptantha ambigua) A small Cryptantha that makes a sprawling plant with small white flowers. This annual wildflower has many spreading arms with hairy leaves and stems. slides/cryptantha_obscure.jpg slides/currant_wax.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Wax Currant (Ribes cereum) This is a small bush about the size of Sagebrush and has pink flowers and nice red berries later. Loves rocky habitat. Sometimes called a Squaw Currant. Wax Currant (Ribes cereum) This is a small bush about the size of Sagebrush and has pink flowers and nice red berries later. Loves rocky habitat. Sometimes called a Squaw Currant. slides/currant_wax.jpg slides/currant_waxf.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Wax Currant (Ribes cereum) This is a small bush about the size of Sagebrush and has pink flowers and nice red berries later. The pretty red berries never last long as the birds love them. Wax Currant (Ribes cereum) This is a small bush about the size of Sagebrush and has pink flowers and nice red berries later. The pretty red berries never last long as the birds love them. slides/currant_waxf.jpg slides/currant_golden.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Golden Currant (Ribes aureum) This beautiful bush has pretty yellow flowers in the Spring, which mature into golden berries later. A very common shrub, but likes moister areas. Golden Currant (Ribes aureum) This beautiful bush has pretty yellow flowers in the Spring, which mature into golden berries later. A very common shrub, but likes moister areas. slides/currant_golden.jpg slides/currant_goldenf.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Golden Currant (Ribes aureum) This beautiful bush has pretty yellow flowers in the Spring, which mature into pretty golden berries later. These are sweet and juicy. Golden Currant (Ribes aureum) This beautiful bush has pretty yellow flowers in the Spring, which mature into pretty golden berries later. These are sweet and juicy. slides/currant_goldenf.jpg slides/daggerpod.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Daggerpod (Phoenicaulis cheiranthoides) Olive green leaves and pretty lavender flowers make this a hard flower to miss in the early Spring. The bees like them too. Daggerpod (Phoenicaulis cheiranthoides) Olive green leaves and pretty lavender flowers make this a hard flower to miss in the early Spring. The bees like them too. slides/daggerpod.jpg slides/daisy_linearleaf.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Linear-leaf Daisy (Erigeron linearis) This is often called a Desert Yellow Daisy and it puts on a splendid show of yellow in May. It is often found in mounds of yellow in open Sagebrush areas. Linear-leaf Daisy (Erigeron linearis) This is often called a Desert Yellow Daisy and it puts on a splendid show of yellow in May. It is often found in mounds of yellow in open Sagebrush areas. slides/daisy_linearleaf.jpg slides/daisy_shaggy.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Shaggy Daisy (Erigeron pumilus) This daisy at first glance looks a lot like the Cushion Daisy, but it is much taller and has shaggy looking leaves that grow up the plant stem. Also called a Shaggy Fleabane. Shaggy Daisy (Erigeron pumilus) This daisy at first glance looks a lot like the Cushion Daisy, but it is much taller and has shaggy looking leaves that grow up the plant stem. Also called a Shaggy Fleabane. slides/daisy_shaggy.jpg slides/daisy_foothill.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Foothill Daisy (Erigeron corymbosus) This attractive daisy often gets 12" tall. Its purple color puts on a real show mixed in with the Sagebrush. Often called a Long-leaf Fleabane. Foothill Daisy (Erigeron corymbosus) This attractive daisy often gets 12" tall. Its purple color puts on a real show mixed in with the Sagebrush. Often called a Long-leaf Fleabane. slides/daisy_foothill.jpg slides/dogwood_redosier.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Red-osier Dogwood (Cornus stolonifera) This small to medium shrub has pretty flowers and leaves, as well as stems that turn bright red. Makes small white berries. Red-osier Dogwood (Cornus stolonifera) This small to medium shrub has pretty flowers and leaves, as well as stems that turn bright red. Makes small white berries. slides/dogwood_redosier.jpg slides/elderberry_blue.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Blue Elderberry (Sambucus cerulea) This is a shrub or small tree that is covered with white flowers in the Spring and grape like berries after. Blue Elderberry (Sambucus cerulea) This is a shrub or small tree that is covered with white flowers in the Spring and grape like berries after. slides/elderberry_blue.jpg slides/elderberryf_blue.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Blue Elderberry (Sambucus cerulea) This is a shrub or small tree that is covered with white flowers in the Spring and grape like berries after. The berries are edible and make a nice jam or jelly. Blue Elderberry (Sambucus cerulea) This is a shrub or small tree that is covered with white flowers in the Spring and grape like berries after. The berries are edible and make a nice jam or jelly. slides/elderberryf_blue.jpg slides/fiddleneck.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Tarweed Fiddleneck (Amsinckia lycopsoides) Fiddleneck is found in or near the Sagebrush Steppe. This variety is covered with hair blocking the flower throat. Also called Bugloss Fiddleneck. Tarweed Fiddleneck (Amsinckia lycopsoides) Fiddleneck is found in or near the Sagebrush Steppe. This variety is covered with hair blocking the flower throat. Also called Bugloss Fiddleneck. slides/fiddleneck.jpg slides/fiddleneck_bristly.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Bristly Fiddleneck (Amsinckia tessellata) This variety has long bristles on the stems and lacks the shorter hairs. Has an open flower throat and only 3 seeds per flower. Also called Devils Lettuce. Bristly Fiddleneck (Amsinckia tessellata) This variety has long bristles on the stems and lacks the shorter hairs. Has an open flower throat and only 3 seeds per flower. Also called Devils Lettuce. slides/fiddleneck_bristly.jpg slides/fiddleneck_menzies.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Menzies' Fiddleneck (Amsinckia menziesii var. menziesii) This variety has small yellow flowers and sparse long bristles on the stems. It also has an open flower throat and 5 seeds per flower. Also called Ranchers Fireweed. Menzies' Fiddleneck (Amsinckia menziesii var. menziesii) This variety has small yellow flowers and sparse long bristles on the stems. It also has an open flower throat and 5 seeds per flower. Also called Ranchers Fireweed. slides/fiddleneck_menzies.jpg slides/goldenrod_canada.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) Also called Meadow Goldenrod, this is the most common goldenrod in this area and often grows along roadsides or creek banks and other damp places. Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) Also called Meadow Goldenrod, this is the most common goldenrod in this area and often grows along roadsides or creek banks and other damp places. slides/goldenrod_canada.jpg slides/goldenrod_northern.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Northern Goldenrod (Solidago multiradiata) This is a low growing plant that is almost mat forming and sends up flowerheads about 1' high. Also called Rocky Mountain Goldenrod. Northern Goldenrod (Solidago multiradiata) This is a low growing plant that is almost mat forming and sends up flowerheads about 1' high. Also called Rocky Mountain Goldenrod. slides/goldenrod_northern.jpg slides/goldenrod_western.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Western Goldenrod (Euthamia occidentalis) This Goldenrod is usually found near stream banks and has flowerheads that spread out. It blooms about the same time as Eaton Asters along the streambank. Western Goldenrod (Euthamia occidentalis) This Goldenrod is usually found near stream banks and has flowerheads that spread out. It blooms about the same time as Eaton Asters along the streambank. slides/goldenrod_western.jpg slides/groundsmoke_spreading.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Spreading Groundsmoke (Gayophytum diffusum) A small white wildflower that tends to spawl over the ground. Notice the pretty red stems and bean like seedpods on the flowers that have matured. Spreading Groundsmoke (Gayophytum diffusum) A small white wildflower that tends to spawl over the ground. Notice the pretty red stems and bean like seedpods on the flowers that have matured. slides/groundsmoke_spreading.jpg slides/hawksbeard_slender.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Slender Hawksbeard (Crepis atrabarba) These attractive wildflowers grow within the Sagebrush and get 2' tall or more, covering the Sagebrush with yellow. They look similiar to Microseris, but much taller. Slender Hawksbeard (Crepis atrabarba) These attractive wildflowers grow within the Sagebrush and get 2' tall or more, covering the Sagebrush with yellow. They look similiar to Microseris, but much taller. slides/hawksbeard_slender.jpg slides/hawksbeard_western.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Western Hawksbeard (Crepis occidentalis) A common Hawksbeard of the sagebrush country. Grows low to the ground and has pretty buds that look like pearls from a distance if the Sun is on them. Western Hawksbeard (Crepis occidentalis) A common Hawksbeard of the sagebrush country. Grows low to the ground and has pretty buds that look like pearls from a distance if the Sun is on them. slides/hawksbeard_western.jpg slides/hawthorne_black.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Black Hawthorne (Crataegus douglasii) A pretty tree, but has long thorns, so don't try to climb it. Covered with clusters of white flowers, then reddish-black berries. Also called a Douglas Hawthorne. Black Hawthorne (Crataegus douglasii) A pretty tree, but has long thorns, so don't try to climb it. Covered with clusters of white flowers, then reddish-black berries. Also called a Douglas Hawthorne. slides/hawthorne_black.jpg slides/hyssop_giant.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Western Giant Hyssop (Agastache occidentalis) Also called Horsemint. This is a fairly widespread plant that looks a little like Mint and a little like small Stinging Nettles 1' to 3' tall. It does not sting though. Western Giant Hyssop (Agastache occidentalis) Also called Horsemint. This is a fairly widespread plant that looks a little like Mint and a little like small Stinging Nettles 1' to 3' tall. It does not sting though. slides/hyssop_giant.jpg slides/lily_brodiead.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Douglas' Brodiaea Lily (Triteleia grandiflora var. douglasii) This beautiful pale to sky blue lily looks very similiar to the Howell's Brodiaea, but is usually blue in color and the three inside petals are smaller and ruffled. Douglas' Brodiaea Lily (Triteleia grandiflora var. douglasii) This beautiful pale to sky blue lily looks very similiar to the Howell's Brodiaea, but is usually blue in color and the three inside petals are smaller and ruffled. slides/lily_brodiead.jpg slides/lily_brodieah.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Howell's Brodiaea Lily (Triteleia grandiflora var. howellii) This beautiful pale blue or white lily grows flowers on a long stem and is quite impressive blown in the wind. It is often called a Bi-colored Cluster Lily. Howell's Brodiaea Lily (Triteleia grandiflora var. howellii) This beautiful pale blue or white lily grows flowers on a long stem and is quite impressive blown in the wind. It is often called a Bi-colored Cluster Lily. slides/lily_brodieah.jpg slides/lily_mariposa.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Sagebrush Mariposa (Calochortus macrocarpus) The beautiful Mariposa Lily signals the end of the Spring bloom, but what a pretty way to end. These cover the now dry hillsides with their special beauty. Sagebrush Mariposa (Calochortus macrocarpus) The beautiful Mariposa Lily signals the end of the Spring bloom, but what a pretty way to end. These cover the now dry hillsides with their special beauty. slides/lily_mariposa.jpg slides/linanthus_harkness.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Harkness' Linanthus (Linanthus harknessii) Also called Harkness' Flaxflower. I call it the daddy longlegs of wildflowers. It's amazing the tiny long stems can support the many flowers. Harkness' Linanthus (Linanthus harknessii) Also called Harkness' Flaxflower. I call it the daddy longlegs of wildflowers. It's amazing the tiny long stems can support the many flowers. slides/linanthus_harkness.jpg slides/littlebells.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Littlebells (Polemonium micranthum) Very small and hard to catch the flower heads open. This is related to the Jacobs Ladder that we see in the mountains. Littlebells (Polemonium micranthum) Very small and hard to catch the flower heads open. This is related to the Jacobs Ladder that we see in the mountains. slides/littlebells.jpg slides/lupine_bingen.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Bingen Lupine (Lupinus bingenensis var. subsaccatus) This is also called Sulphur Lupine and unlike ssp. sulphureus, it is blue, not yellow in color. It usually has some white in the blooms and the flower calyx is very fuzzy or hairy. Bingen Lupine (Lupinus bingenensis var. subsaccatus) This is also called Sulphur Lupine and unlike ssp. sulphureus, it is blue, not yellow in color. It usually has some white in the blooms and the flower calyx is very fuzzy or hairy. slides/lupine_bingen.jpg slides/microseris.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Wavyleaf Microseris (Nothocalais troximoides.) The Dandelion of the Sagebrush, but I assure you much prettier as it sends up its long stems of flowerheads. Also called a False Agoseris. Has wavy leaves. Wavyleaf Microseris (Nothocalais troximoides.) The Dandelion of the Sagebrush, but I assure you much prettier as it sends up its long stems of flowerheads. Also called a False Agoseris. Has wavy leaves. slides/microseris.jpg slides/milkvetch_woollypod.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Woolly-pod Milkvetch (Astragalus purshii) This flower comes in many shades of lavender and its woolly seedpods give it a name. It grows very low to the ground, normally only a couple inches tall. Woolly-pod Milkvetch (Astragalus purshii) This flower comes in many shades of lavender and its woolly seedpods give it a name. It grows very low to the ground, normally only a couple inches tall. slides/milkvetch_woollypod.jpg slides/milkvetch_woollypodf.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Woolly-pod Milkvetch (Astragalus purshii) This flower comes in many shades of lavender and its woolly seedpods give it a name. The fuzzy seedpods look like something from a sci-fi movie. Woolly-pod Milkvetch (Astragalus purshii) This flower comes in many shades of lavender and its woolly seedpods give it a name. The fuzzy seedpods look like something from a sci-fi movie. slides/milkvetch_woollypodf.jpg slides/milkvetch_yakima.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Yakima Milkvetch (Astragalus reventiformis) A different looking milkvetch with the flowers coming on long stems. The plant is about 12" to 18" tall. Yakima Milkvetch (Astragalus reventiformis) A different looking milkvetch with the flowers coming on long stems. The plant is about 12" to 18" tall. slides/milkvetch_yakima.jpg slides/moss.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 This nice group of moss was found growing on some lichen covered rocks in a very wet month of February. There appears to be at least three different types, all looking very healthy in the wet enviroment. This nice group of moss was found growing on some lichen covered rocks in a very wet month of February. There appears to be at least three different types, all looking very healthy in the wet enviroment. slides/moss.jpg slides/mushrooms.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 These small mushrooms were only about 1/4" across and brightly colored. Found growing is some fresh moss. These small mushrooms were only about 1/4" across and brightly colored. Found growing is some fresh moss. slides/mushrooms.jpg slides/oregon_grape.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Tall Oregon Grape (Berberis aquifolium) The shiny green leaves and attractive yellow flowers make this a showy plant that has purple grape like berries in the Summer. State flower of Oregon. Tall Oregon Grape (Berberis aquifolium) The shiny green leaves and attractive yellow flowers make this a showy plant that has purple grape like berries in the Summer. State flower of Oregon. slides/oregon_grape.jpg slides/oregon_sunshine.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Oregon Sunshine (Eriophyllum lanatum var. integrifolium) A pretty yellow flower that has distinctive looking buds. They also have darker yellow centers and leaves up the stems. Oregon Sunshine (Eriophyllum lanatum var. integrifolium) A pretty yellow flower that has distinctive looking buds. They also have darker yellow centers and leaves up the stems. slides/oregon_sunshine.jpg slides/paintbrush_thompson.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Thompson Paintbrush (Castilleja thompsonii) This paintbrush is quite common and is very attractive amongst the Sagebrush. It doesn't turn red like mountain paintbrush. Thompson Paintbrush (Castilleja thompsonii) This paintbrush is quite common and is very attractive amongst the Sagebrush. It doesn't turn red like mountain paintbrush. slides/paintbrush_thompson.jpg slides/parsley_canbys.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Canby's Desert Parsley (Lomatium canbyi) One of the earliest desert parleys, low growing, white with purple anthers and has pretty parsley like leaves and purple stems. Canby's Desert Parsley (Lomatium canbyi) One of the earliest desert parleys, low growing, white with purple anthers and has pretty parsley like leaves and purple stems. slides/parsley_canbys.jpg slides/parsley_fernleaf.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Fern-leaf Desert Parsley (Lomatium dissectum) Perhaps the showiest of all the desert parsley's. This can often be seen from the roadside as it grows over 3' tall. The distintive chocolate red flowers are easy to spot. Fern-leaf Desert Parsley (Lomatium dissectum) Perhaps the showiest of all the desert parsley's. This can often be seen from the roadside as it grows over 3' tall. The distintive chocolate red flowers are easy to spot. slides/parsley_fernleaf.jpg slides/parsley_geyers.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Geyer's Desert Parsley (Lomatium geyeri) Also called Geyer's Biscuitroot or Lomatium. One of the common Desert Parsley's in this area. Normally it is about 6" to 12", has long flat linear leaves and likes to grow among the Sagebrush, often hiding in it. Not found in lithosol areas. Notice the Mt St Helens ash still on the ground here. Geyer's Desert Parsley (Lomatium geyeri) Also called Geyer's Biscuitroot or Lomatium. One of the common Desert Parsley's in this area. Normally it is about 6" to 12", has long flat linear leaves and likes to grow among the Sagebrush, often hiding in it. Not found in lithosol areas. Notice the Mt St Helens ash still on the ground here. slides/parsley_geyers.jpg slides/parsley_hamblens.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Hamblen's Desert Parsley (Lomatium farinosum) A yellow desert parsley that has grass like leaves coming from the base. Can get to be 1' tall, but often it is low to the ground. Also called Hamblen's Biscuitroot. Hamblen's Desert Parsley (Lomatium farinosum) A yellow desert parsley that has grass like leaves coming from the base. Can get to be 1' tall, but often it is low to the ground. Also called Hamblen's Biscuitroot. slides/parsley_hamblens.jpg slides/penstemon_showy.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Showy Penstemon (Penstemon speciosus) As we get into early June, this penstemon puts on quite a show for us. It can send flower stems 3' high. The stems are covered with big blue flowers, kind of like Gladiolus. Showy Penstemon (Penstemon speciosus) As we get into early June, this penstemon puts on quite a show for us. It can send flower stems 3' high. The stems are covered with big blue flowers, kind of like Gladiolus. slides/penstemon_showy.jpg slides/penstemon_sulphur1.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Sulphur Penstemon (Penstemon attenuatus) Sky blue is the normal color of this beautiful wildflower, but it also comes in bluish purple or white. It can cover the Sagebrush hillside with a blanket of blue color. Sulphur Penstemon (Penstemon attenuatus) Sky blue is the normal color of this beautiful wildflower, but it also comes in bluish purple or white. It can cover the Sagebrush hillside with a blanket of blue color. slides/penstemon_sulphur1.jpg slides/penstemon_sulphurw.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Sulphur Penstemon White (Penstemon attenuatus) The beautiful pure white form of this wildflower is less common here and a wonderful sight to see in the wild. Notice how the yellow beard stands out more then in the blue. Sulphur Penstemon White (Penstemon attenuatus) The beautiful pure white form of this wildflower is less common here and a wonderful sight to see in the wild. Notice how the yellow beard stands out more then in the blue. slides/penstemon_sulphurw.jpg slides/phacelia_narrowleaf.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Narrow-leaf Phacelia (Phacelia linearis) Also called Thread-leaf Phacelia. This phacelia has small leaves, but spectacular flowers. Not as common as Silver-leaf Phacelia, but very attractive. Narrow-leaf Phacelia (Phacelia linearis) Also called Thread-leaf Phacelia. This phacelia has small leaves, but spectacular flowers. Not as common as Silver-leaf Phacelia, but very attractive. slides/phacelia_narrowleaf.jpg slides/phacelia_silverleaf.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Silver-leaf Phacelia (Phacelia hastata) Also called White-leaf Phacelia, the silver green leaves give it a name and are very pretty early in the Spring. The flowers take second place to it's pretty leaves. Silver-leaf Phacelia (Phacelia hastata) Also called White-leaf Phacelia, the silver green leaves give it a name and are very pretty early in the Spring. The flowers take second place to it's pretty leaves. slides/phacelia_silverleaf.jpg slides/phacelia_silverleaf1.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Silver-leaf Phacelia (Phacelia hastata) Also called White-leaf Phacelia, the silver green leaves give it a name and are very pretty early in the Spring as they start another season. Silver-leaf Phacelia (Phacelia hastata) Also called White-leaf Phacelia, the silver green leaves give it a name and are very pretty early in the Spring as they start another season. slides/phacelia_silverleaf1.jpg slides/phlox_cushion.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Cushion Phlox (Phlox hoodii) This is a low mat forming plant that becomes a solid mass of blooms early in the Spring. Can be confused with Long-leaf Phlox, which is not mat forming. Leaves are prickly, stiff. Cushion Phlox (Phlox hoodii) This is a low mat forming plant that becomes a solid mass of blooms early in the Spring. Can be confused with Long-leaf Phlox, which is not mat forming. Leaves are prickly, stiff. slides/phlox_cushion.jpg slides/phlox_longleaf.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Long-leaf Phlox (Phlox longifolia) This often grows within the Sagebrush, climbing them like Ivy. It looks like the Sagebrush is blooming. Long-leaf Phlox (Phlox longifolia) This often grows within the Sagebrush, climbing them like Ivy. It looks like the Sagebrush is blooming. slides/phlox_longleaf.jpg slides/phlox_slender.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Slender Phlox (Microsteris gracilis var. humilior) Also called Midget Phlox or Pink Microsteris, this is a very small flower only 1" to 2" tall with tiny flowers that you will miss unless you are looking for them. Often grows with Blue-eyed Mary's. Slender Phlox (Microsteris gracilis var. humilior) Also called Midget Phlox or Pink Microsteris, this is a very small flower only 1" to 2" tall with tiny flowers that you will miss unless you are looking for them. Often grows with Blue-eyed Mary's. slides/phlox_slender.jpg slides/plantain_fringed_water.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Fringed Water Plantain (Damasonium californicum) This plant grows near or in water and is very rare in this area. Notice the three small petals, unusual. Fringed Water Plantain (Damasonium californicum) This plant grows near or in water and is very rare in this area. Notice the three small petals, unusual. slides/plantain_fringed_water.jpg slides/plectritis.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 White Plectritus (Plectritus macrocera) This small plant can blanket the Sagebrush hills with its white flower heads with black spots. One of the early Spring wildflowers that greets us in abundance. White Plectritus (Plectritus macrocera) This small plant can blanket the Sagebrush hills with its white flower heads with black spots. One of the early Spring wildflowers that greets us in abundance. slides/plectritis.jpg slides/popcorn_flower.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Slender Popcorn Flower (Plagiobothrys tenellus) A very small flower, sometimes barely 1/8" across. This normally grows only a few inches high, so watch your step. As you can see, it is very delicate, but a beautiful early Spring wildflower. Slender Popcorn Flower (Plagiobothrys tenellus) A very small flower, sometimes barely 1/8" across. This normally grows only a few inches high, so watch your step. As you can see, it is very delicate, but a beautiful early Spring wildflower. slides/popcorn_flower.jpg slides/prairiestar_slender.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Slender Prairie Star (Lithophragma tenellum) One of the beautiful Prairie Stars or Woodland Stars. A small wildflower that grows only 6" to 8" tall. It looks similiar to the Bulbous Prairie Star, but without the red bulblets. Slender Prairie Star (Lithophragma tenellum) One of the beautiful Prairie Stars or Woodland Stars. A small wildflower that grows only 6" to 8" tall. It looks similiar to the Bulbous Prairie Star, but without the red bulblets. slides/prairiestar_slender.jpg slides/prairiestar_bulblet.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Bulbous Prairie Star (Lithophragma glabrum var. bulbifera) One of the beautiful Prairie Stars or Wood;and Stars. Notice the red bulblets forming on the stem, thus its name. It only grows to about 8" tall and blooms a little later then the Smooth Prairie Star and it looks very similiar. Bulbous Prairie Star (Lithophragma glabrum var. bulbifera) One of the beautiful Prairie Stars or Wood;and Stars. Notice the red bulblets forming on the stem, thus its name. It only grows to about 8" tall and blooms a little later then the Smooth Prairie Star and it looks very similiar. slides/prairiestar_bulblet.jpg slides/prairiestar_flower.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Small-flowered Prairie Star (Lithophragma parviflora) The name is mis-leading on this beautiful flower. It is often 12" tall and has multiple flowers per stem. One of my favorite wildflowers. Small-flowered Prairie Star (Lithophragma parviflora) The name is mis-leading on this beautiful flower. It is often 12" tall and has multiple flowers per stem. One of my favorite wildflowers. slides/prairiestar_flower.jpg slides/puccoon.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Puccoon (Lithospermum ruderale) Small pale yellow flowers form a head on each stem that has green narrow leaves all the way to its top. The leaves are a welcome green to the landscape. Puccoon (Lithospermum ruderale) Small pale yellow flowers form a head on each stem that has green narrow leaves all the way to its top. The leaves are a welcome green to the landscape. slides/puccoon.jpg slides/pussytoes_low.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Low Pussytoes (Antennaria dimorpha) Probably a good name for this one, it only gets about 1" tall and is mat forming. Doesn't make the fuzzy flower heads we see in other varieties of pussytoes. Low Pussytoes (Antennaria dimorpha) Probably a good name for this one, it only gets about 1" tall and is mat forming. Doesn't make the fuzzy flower heads we see in other varieties of pussytoes. slides/pussytoes_low.jpg slides/pussytoes_umber.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Umber Pussytoes (Antennaria umbrinella) These look similiar to Alpine Pussytoes, but have brownish colored bracts. Makes a mat forming cluster of leaves with the stems coming up and making the pussy toes. Umber Pussytoes (Antennaria umbrinella) These look similiar to Alpine Pussytoes, but have brownish colored bracts. Makes a mat forming cluster of leaves with the stems coming up and making the pussy toes. slides/pussytoes_umber.jpg slides/rabbitbrush_green.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Green Rabbit-brush (Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus) This is the first rabbit-brush to bloom, usually in August. The leaves are a darker green then the gray variety. This image shows some buds not completely open. Green Rabbit-brush (Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus) This is the first rabbit-brush to bloom, usually in August. The leaves are a darker green then the gray variety. This image shows some buds not completely open. slides/rabbitbrush_green.jpg slides/rabbitbrush_gray.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Gray Rabbit-brush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus) Usually blooms in September. You may notice the rabbit-brushes along the roadside as you buzz down the freeway in the fall. It is one of the last flowers to bloom in the sagebrush country. Gray Rabbit-brush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus) Usually blooms in September. You may notice the rabbit-brushes along the roadside as you buzz down the freeway in the fall. It is one of the last flowers to bloom in the sagebrush country. slides/rabbitbrush_gray.jpg slides/rockcress_silver.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Silver Rockcress (Arabis puberula) Also called a Blue Mountain or Hoary Rockcress. This plant has lavander flowers with the leaves curled at the top and slightly toothed, especially on the young growth at the bottom of the plant. Silver Rockcress (Arabis puberula) Also called a Blue Mountain or Hoary Rockcress. This plant has lavander flowers with the leaves curled at the top and slightly toothed, especially on the young growth at the bottom of the plant. slides/rockcress_silver.jpg slides/rockcress_silver_lvs.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Silver Rockcress (Arabis puberula) Also called a Blue Mountain or Hoary Rockcress. This image is of a young plants in early March, showing the toothed basal leaves and dark green color. They have not sent up there flower stocks yet. Silver Rockcress (Arabis puberula) Also called a Blue Mountain or Hoary Rockcress. This image is of a young plants in early March, showing the toothed basal leaves and dark green color. They have not sent up there flower stocks yet. slides/rockcress_silver_lvs.jpg slides/sagebrush_tall_fl.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Big Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) Big Sagebrush blooms about the same time as Gray Rabbit-brush. Its tanish yellow flowers cover the tops of the bush. It is often called Tall Sagebrush. Big Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) Big Sagebrush blooms about the same time as Gray Rabbit-brush. Its tanish yellow flowers cover the tops of the bush. It is often called Tall Sagebrush. slides/sagebrush_tall_fl.jpg slides/serviceberry_western.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Western Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia) A large shrub, very pretty, about the size of a big Lilac. Covered with white flowers in the Spring and berries that look like little apples for the birds after the bloom. Western Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia) A large shrub, very pretty, about the size of a big Lilac. Covered with white flowers in the Spring and berries that look like little apples for the birds after the bloom. slides/serviceberry_western.jpg slides/serviceberry_utah.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Utah Serviceberry (Amelanchier utahensis) A much lower growing shrub then Western Serviceberry. Has broader petal white flowers in the Spring and berries for the birds after the bloom. Utah Serviceberry (Amelanchier utahensis) A much lower growing shrub then Western Serviceberry. Has broader petal white flowers in the Spring and berries for the birds after the bloom. slides/serviceberry_utah.jpg slides/snowberry.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Common Snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus) This has tiny flowers in the Spring and then white berries hang even after the leaves fall in Autumn. Has broad leaves. The white berries give it a name. Common Snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus) This has tiny flowers in the Spring and then white berries hang even after the leaves fall in Autumn. Has broad leaves. The white berries give it a name. slides/snowberry.jpg slides/snowberry_mountain.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Mountain Snowberry (Symphoricarpos oreophilus) Related to the Common Snowberry, this variety has pretty little flowers and much slimmer leaves. The flowers are actually larger then Common Snowberry flowers. Mountain Snowberry (Symphoricarpos oreophilus) Related to the Common Snowberry, this variety has pretty little flowers and much slimmer leaves. The flowers are actually larger then Common Snowberry flowers. slides/snowberry_mountain.jpg slides/syringa.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Syringa (Phildadelphus lewisii) This pretty bush looks a lot like a Serviceberry from a distance, but blooms about a month later. It is also known as a Mock Orange and was discovered by Lewis and Clark and is the State flower of Idaho. Syringa (Phildadelphus lewisii) This pretty bush looks a lot like a Serviceberry from a distance, but blooms about a month later. It is also known as a Mock Orange and was discovered by Lewis and Clark and is the State flower of Idaho. slides/syringa.jpg slides/townsendia_showy.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Showy Townsendia (Townsendia florifer) An attractive wildflower that is about the same size and height of a Cushion Daisy. Has distinctive petals that become narrow where they attach. Showy Townsendia (Townsendia florifer) An attractive wildflower that is about the same size and height of a Cushion Daisy. Has distinctive petals that become narrow where they attach. slides/townsendia_showy.jpg slides/whitlow_grass.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Spring Whitlow Grass (Draba verna) One of the smallest wildflowers you will see, the center yellow part is about the size of a ball point pen head. Notice the seed on the mature center flower. Spring Whitlow Grass (Draba verna) One of the smallest wildflowers you will see, the center yellow part is about the size of a ball point pen head. Notice the seed on the mature center flower. slides/whitlow_grass.jpg slides/willowherb_northern.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Northern Willowherb (Epilobium ciliatum) Also called Fringed Willowherb and sometimes Purple-leaf Willowherb. Sometimes the stems and leaves have some purple in them. The leaves are slighlty toothed or fringed. Northern Willowherb (Epilobium ciliatum) Also called Fringed Willowherb and sometimes Purple-leaf Willowherb. Sometimes the stems and leaves have some purple in them. The leaves are slighlty toothed or fringed. slides/willowherb_northern.jpg slides/willowherb_tall_annual.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Tall Annual Willowherb (Epilobium brachycarpum) This is a tall plant 2' to3' and kind of resembles Mustard Weed from a distance when not in bloom. It tends to like disturbed ground. Tall Annual Willowherb (Epilobium brachycarpum) This is a tall plant 2' to3' and kind of resembles Mustard Weed from a distance when not in bloom. It tends to like disturbed ground. slides/willowherb_tall_annual.jpg slides/yarrow.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) This attractive plant is seen everywhere, even in the high mountains. It does quite well in the dry sagebrush hills. Has a nice fragrance and pretty fern like leaves. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) This attractive plant is seen everywhere, even in the high mountains. It does quite well in the dry sagebrush hills. Has a nice fragrance and pretty fern like leaves. slides/yarrow.jpg slides/sagebrush_tall.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Big Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) Often called Tall Sagebrush. This variety is in full bloom the first of October. It often grows 6' to 8' tall and is the primary Sagebrush found throughout the West. Big Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) Often called Tall Sagebrush. This variety is in full bloom the first of October. It often grows 6' to 8' tall and is the primary Sagebrush found throughout the West. slides/sagebrush_tall.jpg slides/sagebrush_stiff.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Stiff Sagebrush (Artemisia rigida) Much less common then Big Sagebrush and likes to grow in shallow rocky lithosol ground. Only gets about 2' tall and its leaves are decideous and shaped like a three prong fork. Can get to be over 100 years old. Stiff Sagebrush (Artemisia rigida) Much less common then Big Sagebrush and likes to grow in shallow rocky lithosol ground. Only gets about 2' tall and its leaves are decideous and shaped like a three prong fork. Can get to be over 100 years old. slides/sagebrush_stiff.jpg slides/beaver_tree.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Beavers frequent Cowiche Creek and can do much damage to both small and large trees along it. A large tree is no match for a Beavers teeth. This large Pacific Willow paid the price. Beavers frequent Cowiche Creek and can do much damage to both small and large trees along it. A large tree is no match for a Beavers teeth. This large Pacific Willow paid the price. slides/beaver_tree.jpg slides/cowiche_creek.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 The North Fork of Cowiche Creek has its own beauty and is home to many forms of wildlife and plants. This image is of a beaver dam on the creek. These little construction workers build very sturdy dams that often withstand high creek flow in the Spring and after rains. The North Fork of Cowiche Creek has its own beauty and is home to many forms of wildlife and plants. This image is of a beaver dam on the creek. These little construction workers build very sturdy dams that often withstand high creek flow in the Spring and after rains. slides/cowiche_creek.jpg slides/cowiche_property_fire.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 Cowiche Creek Property Fire. On July 3rd, 2006, an arson set fire involving fireworks in Cheat Grass was started near our property. It destroyed about 20 acres of wonderful Sagebrush Steppe, including two acres of our property and its native environment. Cowiche Creek Property Fire. On July 3rd, 2006, an arson set fire involving fireworks in Cheat Grass was started near our property. It destroyed about 20 acres of wonderful Sagebrush Steppe, including two acres of our property and its native environment. slides/cowiche_property_fire.jpg slides/cowiche_wildflowers.html# Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:51:10 -0800 This was taken almost two years after the fire and the Bunchgrass and Penstemons are coming back better then before. As you can see young Sagebrush is also growing from seed. All and all recovery from the fire is going well. This was taken almost two years after the fire and the Bunchgrass and Penstemons are coming back better then before. As you can see young Sagebrush is also growing from seed. All and all recovery from the fire is going well. slides/cowiche_wildflowers.jpg