Countywide Mojave Max contest
The Clark County Desert Conservation Program launched a milestone event with the first-ever countywide Mojave Max Emergence Contest. Held on June 1, 2025, the event marked a major expansion of the popular environmental initiative. Previously, for 25 years entries were limited to students. However, this year’s Clark County contest welcomed every resident to guess when Mojave Max would emerge from brumation, the desert tortoise’s natural hibernation cycle.
Over 1,500 entries submitted from across the county
This bold change resulted in over 1,500 guesses submitted from families, individuals, and conservation enthusiasts. This change broadened the program’s audience. It deepened its mission of environmental awareness. The shift from classroom-only to community-wide participation created new opportunities for family learning, desert education, and a deeper connection to regional conservation values.
Soranaka family wins with accurate prediction of Mojave Max’s wake-up
Jeffrey, Amber, Paige, Parker, Paxten, and Paetyn Soranaka were announced as the winners during a live ceremony at Springs Preserve. Their group submission correctly identified when Mojave Max would awaken. This secured them top honors in the inaugural countywide edition of the contest. The event began promptly at 11:30 a.m. in the Cottonwood Room. Media, supporters, and Clark County staff attended. Prizes were presented by The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, Las Vegas Character Parties, the Clark County Desert Conservation Program, and Springs Preserve.
Mojave Max program expands its conservation reach
Principal Environmental Specialist Kimberley Goodwin spoke during the presentation, highlighting how the Mojave Max initiative serves as a model for public engagement. She emphasized the importance of teaching “Respect, Protect, and Enjoy our desert” to young students and now, families alike. The contest is more than a guessing game. It is a tool to shape future environmental leaders and foster community responsibility. The addition of the Mojave Max mascot at events amplifies this message, especially for young attendees.
Elaine Wynn Elementary honored its own Mojave Max winner
Even as the program broadens its reach, its roots in Clark County School District remain strong. Just days before the family announcement, the Mojave Max team visited Elaine Wynn Elementary School. They visited to celebrate the student winner of the traditional school-based contest. This dual-approach keeps students involved. It also empowers entire households to participate in desert conservation efforts.
Springs Preserve brings desert conservation to life
The prize event held at Springs Preserve gave attendees a chance to explore one of the area’s most immersive environmental spaces. It served as both a celebration and a reminder of how nature, learning, and fun can come together. By using this venue for the first countywide contest, organizers signaled the beginning of a new era where eco-education, family bonding, and tourism intersect.
A legacy of learning that continues to grow
Through the success of this newly expanded contest, Mojave Max is becoming more than a mascot. He is now a symbol of how environmental programs can evolve to engage all ages. The Soranaka family’s win demonstrates how group learning and shared curiosity can inspire a lasting connection to the desert. As the contest looks ahead to next year, the program’s blend of fun, education, and stewardship continues to thrive.
Countywide Mojave Max contest builds environmental pride for every generation
The strong turnout, emotional ceremony, and family-centered format proved that this expanded approach works. This year’s countywide Mojave Max contest has raised the bar for what regional conservation events can achieve. It united families, educated the public, and celebrated a legacy 25 years in the making.
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