Congressman Vince Fong has announced a new partnership between the Ridgecrest chapter of Quail Forever and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) aimed at improving wildlife conservation in Indian Wells Valley. The agreement allows local volunteers to maintain water collection systems, known as “guzzlers,” on public lands managed by the BLM in the Ridgecrest Field Office area, excluding designated wilderness zones.
Guzzlers are essential for providing water to quail and other desert wildlife, especially during droughts. Many of these systems have deteriorated over time due to restricted access and regulatory challenges. Local conservation group Quail Forever approached Congressman Fong with concerns about maintaining these water sources.
In response, Congressman Fong worked to establish a partnership that would permit Quail Forever to restore and maintain guzzlers without cost to taxpayers. “These areas are essential lifelines for desert wildlife in the Mojave Desert, especially during periods of drought,” said Congressman Fong. “This agreement is a commonsense, community-driven solution that ensures these areas are maintained by those who know the land best – local volunteers and residents. I’m honored to have helped bring the right people together to get this done – which wouldn’t have been possible without the outstanding support of the Trump Administration.”
The new agreement enables Quail Forever volunteers to immediately begin resupplying water and restoring infrastructure for wildlife across Indian Wells Valley.
Stu Witt, a Ridgecrest resident and owner of S.O. Witt and Associates, praised Congressman Fong’s involvement: “I would like to thank Congressman Fong for his personal and effective efforts in allowing locally based conservation clubs to access and maintain critical wildlife habitat in the Indian Wells Valley,” Witt said. “Congressman Fong helped foster discussions between Quail Forever and the Bureau of Land Management. An agreement was recently reached, and our wildlife populations will be stronger as a result. The Trump Administration is making a positive impact in our community.”
Congressman Fong stated he remains committed to supporting partnerships that address local needs.
