In a bipartisan effort to preserve California's iconic desert landscapes and diverse wildlife, United States Representative Raul Ruiz (D-Coachella) and Senator Alex Padilla have introduced legislation aimed at designating the Chuckwalla National Monument and expanding the renowned Joshua Tree National Park.
The proposed protected area encompasses vast stretches of Riverside and Imperial counties, including the scenic Chuckwalla Valley, the entirety of the Chuckwalla Mountains, and the adjacent Mecca Hills. These regions are not only visually striking but also serve as critical habitats for a range of wildlife species, including desert tortoises, kit foxes, golden eagles, and the Chuckwalla lizards after which the proposed monument is named.
A statement from the national nonprofit Center for Biological Diversity highlighted the importance of these landscapes, emphasizing their rich biological diversity and ecological significance. The bills introduced by Rep. Ruiz and Sen. Padilla have garnered support from local tribes, numerous businesses, communities, and conservation groups across the region.
Dr. Ruiz initially unveiled legislation for the Chuckwalla National Monument in 2023, proposing a substantial 660,000-acre area dedicated to preservation. This legislation also includes a provision for a 17,000-acre expansion of the beloved Joshua Tree National Park, an iconic destination renowned for its otherworldly landscapes and unique flora and fauna.