speed limit Traditional Geocache

This geocache is in a clump of rabbitbrush (chryosthamnus) with long narrow leaves. Enjoy the view and birds. Bring the kids and have a souvenir

The flowers of rabbitbrush have been used to make a yellow dye. The leaves of sagebrush (artemisia) resemble a minature 3 toed bare foot print. Although rabbitbrush and sagebrush might look similiar they are quite distinct. 
The swarming "bugs" that you are seeing (if not in winter) are chironomid midges and do not bite. Flying midges are an important food source for swallows and the many species of dragonflies and spiders. Midge larva are an important food source for the many different types of shorebirds that you will see at different times of the year. One female midge can lay up to 3,000 eggs on the water. When they hatch the larvae swim to the bottom and remain for 2-7 weeks depending on temperature. They overwinter as larvae. They pupae last for about 3 days and the flying adults have a lifespan of 3-5 weeks. This is a salt water species of midge. Shorebirds include Black-necked Stilts, American Avocets, Curlews, Greater Yellow Legs, and many others. Enjoy the wildlife!