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Oasis
Encyclopedia Article
Oasis, small fertile area surrounded by desert. Oases occur where groundwater lies close to the desert surface where plant roots and wells can reach it. In some oases, groundwater reaches the surface forming springs or pools. Historically, oases have served as waypoints in desert crossings where water supplies may be replenished. Some oases are permanently inhabited. The city of Las Vegas, Nevada, is built on the site of an oasis, as is Palm Springs, California. (See also Desert; Water Table).
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