New Study Provides Framework to Maintain and Protect Military Mission and Environment in California Desert

Media contact: Catalina Tresky: ctresky@defenders.org or (202) 772-0253 

WASHINGTON (June 12, 2017) – Today, The Sonoran Institute released “Evaluating Encroachment Pressures on the Military Mission in the California Desert Region,” a study that provides a framework for federal, state and local agencies, communities, conservation organizations and U.S. Military Services to work collaboratively on maintaining and protecting military missions while conserving natural landscapes and ecosystems.

Jeff Aardahl, California representative for Defenders of Wildlife who assisted The Sonoran Institute in preparing the report, issued the following statement:

“As the largest intact desert in the country, the California desert is a diverse landscape that supports a myriad of native plants and vulnerable species -- many protected by state and federal law -- such as the desert tortoise, golden eagle, desert kit fox and desert bighorn sheep. The California desert is also vital in maintaining critical military missions at five large bases operated by the Air Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps.

“This report reveals how military missions and protection of the natural environment in the California desert are inextricably linked. The study provides new opportunities for a variety of agencies and public groups to protect sensitive resources throughout the California desert and gives all stakeholders a road map to achieve conservation goals and sustainable land use activities that are compatible with military missions.

“We look forward to partnering with all organizations, local governments and agencies like the Department of Defense and Bureau of Land Management to achieve lasting protection of the California desert in support of our military services and for the enjoyment of current and future generations.”