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...

Read More

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.

Read More

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...

Read More

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...

Read More

With a focus on health concerns in addition to support for other commenters' concerns with tourism, MBCA sent a comment letter opposing the Supervisors' August 18 impending vote to approve a recommendation that would remove the county from the permitting of mining operations with federal approval. Federal environmental guidelines have been changed to reduce effective review. The specific concern addressed is fine particles of the radioactive element Thorium unearthed in...

Read More

  Mining and Reclamation! Board of Supervisors Meeting 8-18-26    

Read More