Thursday, June 16, 2022

The Disappearing Joshua Tree

 Disappointing. And sad. The California Fish & Game Commission couldn't reach a decision today on whether or not to list Joshua trees on the threatened species list. It would have given the iconic trees additional protection. The Commission will re-consider the issue in October.

You've probably heard the dire predition: Joshua trees will be largely gone from their namesake national park by the end of the century unless we take action. What a tragic loss that would be for us all. These photos of Joshua trees were taken a little over a week ago on my most recent hike. Enjoy!








 
Linking with Skywatch Friday.

29 comments:

  1. These trees have personality and grit to exist, thus far, under such stark conditions. Hopefully, they will get the help they need to survive.

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  2. Oh no, I can't imagine not seeing these trees anymore - I took them so much for granted!
    The black and white is impressive, and also your header - love these little swirly clouds!

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  3. Why in the world would they not protect the trees? So sad.

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  4. ...we do an awful job protecting our treasures, let's hope that the right thing is finally done!!!

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  5. It's hard to believe they won't add them to the list for protection. The desert will surely be empty without them.

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  6. I like numbers 4 and 5 this week. Great shots! Love your new header image as well.

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  7. When are these politicians and decision-makers going to get it? The whole damn world is under threat unless we hurry up and do something about it.

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  8. The joshuas and so much more. One hopes, but I worry about what's happened to us, and what will happen.

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  9. Great new header with near unbelievable colors and the trees are stunning too in this photoshoot again.

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  10. Mark Twain's quote is certainly pertinent to the shortsighted failure of action by the game commission. Beautifully composed images of the iconic trees.

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  11. Beautiful trees ~ great photos ~ Don't understand the hesitation to not save the trees ~ Xo


    Wishing you good health, laughter and love in your days,

    A ShutterBug Explores,
    aka (A Creative Harbor)

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  12. Putting on the endangered list can only HELP so why don't they do it? There is nothing gained by voting against that...if those guys could only see your beautiful photos it would encourage them to do the right thing.

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  13. Beautiful photos. Man made climate change is a thing.

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  14. Climate change is affecting so much of nature - and humans, too - but I fear we are doing too little too late. I wonder if developers put pressure on as far as the trees not being put on the threatened list. What a shame.

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  15. That's shocking. I'd heard they were being devastated and am surprised there was any controversy over giving them additional protection.

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  16. Amazing trees, Thanks for the post.
    Stay well. Greetings

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  17. They add so much character to an otherwise drab landscape. Hope they are not allowed to disappear.

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  18. What a shame to hear these unusual trees are being threatened. I hope those people come to their senses next October and protect them for future generations to enjoy.

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  19. Hope these interesting trees will survive. Beautiful captures!

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  20. Dearest Peter,
    Let's hope they will not become extinct!
    Loved their unique silhouettes in the desert when passing through Arizona on our way to Hoover Dam.
    Thanks for sharing always great photos and meaningful text to it!
    Hugs,
    Mariette

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  21. If it's any comfort at all, the Joshuas may be migrating north--at least some of them. I noticed many years ago that more and more of them seemed to be moving up 395 as the years went by. I took that as an indication that things were just drying up on the way to Owens Valley. Not that there's much comfort in that for those of you who define your "where" to their presence. I'd be in a similar situation if some disaster were to radically alter the profile of the eastern Sierra. But there are things that could be done to save the Joshuas if more people were to come to love the desert as much as you so clearly do. I'll forever be grateful for your intrepid travel and amazing photos of this haunting and beautiful landscape.

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  22. I have been following the news on the Joshua trees. Have seen them myself. What a shame if they are lost!!

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  23. Wonderful photos! I hope the trees will get the protection they need.

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  24. The wilderness is beautiful in your pictures. I haven't seen it myself. Greetings from "orvokki".

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