https://calscape.org/Pinus-monophylla-(Oneneedle-Pinyon-Pine)?srchcr=sc5818e72451311
One of my campsites in Eastern California found me next to this tree. There was a fire ring nearby and lots of wood around to burn. The area was arid and windy, so I declined to have a fire. The next day I ran into a group photographing wild horses who told me that one must have a campfire permit in California.
The annual precipitation in the Great Basin is from 6 to 12 inches a year (150-300mm). If you tap the aquifers, you can find water for agriculture.
These Petroglyphs were found near Highway 6 near the towns of Benton and Bishop, California.
California Dodder, a leafless orange parasite. https://thenaturecollective.org/plant-guide/details/california-dodder/
This plant is Rubber Rabbitbrush. Come back in early Fall, and you will find the Great Basin painted with beautiful yellow flowers. https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/ericameria_nauseosa.shtml
Steven Lawrence Pictures 