Years ago, the second week in May in California was designated as Archeology Week—now October is designated as Archeology Month. Back in 1992, BLM archeologist Don Manuel and myself, as a historian conducted a prehistoric/historic tour of the Smoke Creek Desert territory. It turned out to be widely popular and for a time several tours of different locations were held throughout the year. I recently came across a photograph of the Upper Smoke Creek Tour. These outings were rather popular.

One of the more unusual tours was an east side Eagle Lake tour. Manuel did not partake in this one, and Stan Bales was the BLM representative. This tour included stops at the two Eagle Lake tunnels, as well as the the Eagle Lake Land & Irrigation Company tunnel works and pumping plant location.

From time to time I receive inquiries as to whether the BLM tours will be resurrected. From what little interaction I have with BLM it seems doubtful. Though, I do inform those interested, that they need to contact BLM directly and may be, if the stars are in alignment the inquiry will connect with someone who cares.

Tim