Most of you will have learned from news media about President Trump's recent order for the Department of the Interior to review a number of recently-created National Monuments, including our two local Monuments, Sand-To-Snow and Mojave Trails, that hundreds of us worked so hard to bring to fruition.  News reports from local radio station KCDZ FM, the Desert Sun, and the Los Angeles Times provide details.  The LA Times editorial the next day was very clear about its position; it was titled "Leave the national monuments alone."  There is much uncertainty about how rescinding National Monuments could happen. Morongo Basin residents are urged to let your federal representatives know your feelings on the matter.  You can find contact information and links on our Decision-Maker Contact Information Page within our Resource Library.

 

 

 

We alerted you in March to the Desert Sun's editorial titled "Brown Misguided on Eagle Mountain infrastructure ask," commenting negatively on Governor Jerry Brown's request for federal funding to move this project forward.  The use of desert aquifers to create a "giant battery in the desert" by filling two of the Eagle Mountain Mine empty pits with water and devising an energy-generating movement of the water would likely decimate desert aquifers that fuel desert life in Joshua Tree National Park.  The Desert Sun has published a follow-up editorial that, while expressing some degree of inevitability about the project moving forward, strongly advises to "Keep close watch on Eagle Mountain hydropower project."

 

 

We recently posted a news item about the almost-final status of the San Bernardino County’s Renewable Energy Element of the County General Plan.  Here is the link to that information.

 

 

(Bookmark MBCA’s Calendar of events page to keep up with meetings and events we think will be of interest to MBCA supporters.)

Monday, May 8, 6:30-8:00 PM, Morongo Basin Municipal Advisory Council at Joshua Tree Community Center.  Along with reports from County safety and fire agencies and MAC representatives, Caltrans is scheduled to present an update on the Downtown JT traffic plan.

 

Wednesday, May 17, 4:00-6:30 PM, Celebration of Life for Victoria Fuller at the Joshua Basin Water District Demonstration Garden.  Victoria was a member of MBCA’s Board of Advisors among many other community groups, and a contributor to countless community improvement initiatives.  This event will give all of us a chance to remember her engaging personality and many contributions.  Hope to see you there.