State endangered species protections should be given to Joshua trees, petitioners say

LOS ANGELES – The western Joshua tree needs protection under the California Endangered Species Act because of threats from climate change and habitat destruction, the Center for Biological Diversity said in a petition Tuesday to the state’s Fish and Game Commission.

The petition comes amid rising concern about the future of the crazy-limbed trees with spikey leaves that have come to symbolize the Mojave Desert and draw throngs to Joshua Tree National Park.

https://durangoherald.com/articles/298416-conservationists-seek-protection-of-california-joshua-trees