Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge was named after the galleries of ash trees described in expedition notes from 1893.  This desert oasis, a very rare and unique ecosystem, is recovering and playing an important role in global conservation efforts.  The refuge strives to promote conservation management and awareness through environmental education, outreach programs, voluntarism and visitor services programs.  We promote the 'no trace left behind' philosophy and ask our visitors to leave nothing behind and take only memories.