Protect the Western Joshua Tree!

(Thank you to Earth scientist Lisa LaFlame for the outline and content  of this letter, I simply added a portion about the desert tortoise)

Date: (please add)

via email: fgc@fgc.ca.gov

Ms. Samantha Murray, President
California Fish and Game Commission
P.O. Box 944209
Sacramento, CA 94244-2090 RE: Western Joshua Tree CESA Protection

Dear President Murray,

I am writing today in support of listing the Western Joshua Tree as a threatened species and giving it full protection under the Endangered Species Act (CESA).
The range of the Western Joshua Tree has been shrinking because of the climate crisis, wildfires, and mass clearing by the solar energy and construction industries. Extended periods of extreme heat and prolonged drought are affecting the health of the Joshua Tree such that their ability to reproduce is also imperiled. Additionally, the Western Joshua Tree can only be pollinated by a specific yucca moth that co-evolved with it. Literally: one cannot coexist without the other. We also have a duty to recognize the importance of protecting the Western Joshua Tree to protect the endangered desert Mojave desert tortoise. By providing protections for the Western Joshua Tree we are directly protecting the endangered Mojave desert tortoise.
The elevation range where the Western Joshua Tree currently lives and where it is scientifically projected climate refugia are very limited. Large fields of solar panels can go anywhere - they are not limited to a narrow elevation range.
Renewable energy is very important to combat anthropogenic climate change, but it cannot be at the expense of the keystone Western Joshua Tree and it’s co- dependent yucca moth and the desert tortoise. In this case we have a single chance to save our beautiful desert sentinels, known and loved around the world : our Western Joshua Trees. So, too, can solar energy thrive and grow as it absolutely should, but without impacting the Western Joshua Tree.
Understandably, the California Fish and Game Commission must weigh the decision it makes, taking into consideration the impact of all parties involved. I ask you to embrace this singular opportunity to protect the Western Joshua tree, it’s mutually dependent yucca moth, and the desert tortoise. In providing protections for the Western Joshua Tree, we provide protections for other desert species that are necessary for a healthy desert ecosystem to thrive.

Respectfully,
(Your name)
(Your affiliation)
(Address)




A traveling biologist sharing her stories navigating the wildlife space and how she can best make an impact on the animal world while inspiring others to join her in caring for the environment.

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