At their regular meeting one November 3, the San Bernardino County Supervisors again approved the Lovemore Ranch development in Joshua Tree, with minimal changes in response to a court decision following a lawsuit by Joshua Tree Village Neighbors. MBCA's comment letter as well as numerous public comments at the meeting outlined well-researched concerns about stormwater and sewage issues, as well as traffic and density concerns. Following public comment and Supervisors'...

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The 2019 Bobcat Hunting Moratorium and Management Plan (AB 1254) was initiated following the California Fish and Game Commission decision in 2015 to ban bobcat...

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In a modest but meaningful step forward for home solar in California, Governor Newsom signed SB 868, a bill that will permit California residents to install small plug-in solar panels on porches, fences, or balconies. By powering a few appliances with the small panels, residents can use solar to reduce their electric bills without public utility involvement. Panels that legally qualify for installation are expected to be on store shelves...

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The proposed LoveMore Ranch housing development in Joshua Tree describes a plan to develop 64 lots for single-family residences. MBCA's letter to the County notes that the acreage of the project should limit the number of units to about 54 maximum, based on San Bernardino County codes. The project is also under scrutiny for water-related issues that have not been resolved.

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The San Bernardino County Supervisors meeting on August 18 drew a large number of commenters on item 76: "Conduct a public hearing to consider the proposed ordinance to repeal and reenact local surface mining and land reclamation regulations." Commenters expressed strong concerns that through the proposed changes, the County was handing over environmental review to the recently greatly weakened federal environmental review process. After the comment period, Chair Dawn Rowe...

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This annual report required by the legislature is published by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). It covers the Western Joshua Tree issue from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. The legislative report includes an update on CDFW’s role in the implementation of the Western Joshua Tree Conservaiton Act, information on permits issued, fees collected, conservation implemented, and more. Here is the report and you can find more...

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