New Joshua Tree Research Uses iNaturalist Data
A new study in the online journal Ecology Letters focuses on changes to Joshua tree viability and blooming since the early 20th century. The study uses data from citizen scientist reports of Joshua trees and their blooms through the iNaturalist app, plus historic data. While climate change seems to be increasing the frequency of Joshua Tree blooming, it is also negatively affecting the survival of Joshua tree seedlings. A Los Angeles Times article explains the study and includes comment from Kelly Herbinson, Mojave Desert Land Trust Executive Director.
Update on Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act
The latest regulations and protocols for California's Western Joshua Tree Relocation program were issued on July 1. A public comment session on the latest version of the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Plan was offered by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife on July 11. The prior comment session from April 4 is available on YouTube. When available, the video for July 11 will also be linked here.
More Media Stories about the Plight of Joshua Trees
The expected destruction of thousands of Joshua trees for the Aratina Solar Project in Boron and the subsequent social media outrage has triggered a number of media stories. Riverside Press-Enterprise columnist and well-known desert writer Ruth Nolan published a column "Honoring the Joshua trees of the Mojave Desert town of Boron." A Los Angeles Times story focuses on "rescue plans" for the trees.
Eblast: June 24, 2024
- Aratina Solar poised to kill 4,000 Joshua Trees
- Support Renewable Energy Legislation SB-59
Eblast August 13, 2023
- Short-Term Rentals Community Meetings
- Mojave Air Quality Management District Community Meeting
- Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act Information Event
- County Land Use Services Open House
- Pioneertown and Land Use in The Morongo Basin Item 1
Joshua Trees Retain Protection Under Passage of Budget Bill
After several years of debate and temporary protection status in California, enactment of the state's budget agreement now provides the Western Joshua tree with permanent protection. A Press Release from the Center for Biological Diversity, which initiated the effort via a petition in 2020, provides history and current status details. Additional coverage of the issue, significant for the Morongo Basin, can by found at local radio station KCDZ-fm, the Hi Desert Star, and the Desert Sun. The section on Joshua trees is item #2 in the trailer bill, SB 122.
MBCA Joins Trailer Bill Concerns
With 100 other non-profit conservation-related organizations, MBCA signed a letter to entreat Governor Newsom and 15 state legislators on the Senate and Assembly budget committees to eliminate from the budget a number of infrastructure trailer bills that should be enacted through the legislative process instead. The 8 trailer bills cited would, if enacted through the budget, eliminate public input and considered evaluation for "important and complicated policies."
Western Joshua Tree Endangered Listing Decision Delayed
In an outcome not entirely unexpected, the California Fish and Game Commission today chose to delay the decision on whether listing the Western Joshua tree as an endangered species under the California Endangered Species Act is warranted. Today's meeting focused on additional tribal input, which will continue, while general public comment is closed. Much of the concern comes with how the restrictions will be implemented as relates to development, and the idea of more widespread conservation planning is another issue being considered. The item will next be on the agenda at the Commission's February 8-9, 2023 meeting. Here is the story in more detail as reported by the Desert Sun and here is a short summary by local radio station KCDZ.
Eblast September 24, 2022
- Short Term Rentals and Housing Element Update
- Workshop and Webinar: Joshua Trees and Climate Change
- Sienna Solar 2
Eblast September 22, 2022
- Short Term Rentals and Housing Element Update
- Workshop and Webinar: Joshua Trees and Climate Change
- Sienna Solar 2