DEVELOPMENT OF KELSO DUNES, MOJAVE DESERT, CALIFORNIA

Kelso Dunes, in the eastern Mojave Desert, exemplifies a dune field that has developed in response to Quaternary climatic changes. In this area there is a strong correlation between periods of low and fluctuating or falling lake levels and eolian activity, although so far it has not been possible to correlate specific episodes of dune formation at Kelso with changes in the primary source area. The widespread occurrence of vegetation-stabilized dunes implies, however, that decreased rainfall and vegetation cover are necessary for intensified sand transport in this system.