Grand Canyon Hydrology Trip

"Water, water, water....There is no shortage of water in the desert but exactly the right amount , a perfect ratio of water to rock, water to sand, insuring that wide free open, generous spacing among plants and animals, homes and towns and cities, which makes the arid West so different from any other part of the nation. There is no lack of water here unless you try to establish a city where no city should be."
— Edward Abbey (Desert Solitaire a Season In the Wildern)

New Hance to Grandview

Water is the carver of the Grand Canyon and the lifeblood of its many biotic communities. Of the numerous cascades, trickles and torrents within the canyon, much is known about the storied Colorado River and its critical role in canyon country. Relatively little is known about the more sublime water sources that emerge from the canyon’s ancient rock strata. Though the Colorado River steals most of the headlines, it is the more humble water sources that sustain most of the living organisms in Grand Canyon. Spring-fed streams in particular play a vital role in a region where rainfall is scarce.

I just returned from the canyon-five continuous days of rain and heavy winds below the rim. Climbed out 3500' yesterday, heavy snow on the last 2 miles of the Grandview, treacherous conditions. In spite of the weather, mission accomplished...many hidden springs were found and documented for the National Park Service. My  camera was  trashed in the rain, but I was able to salvage the memory card for some PICS.