In an effort to combat the negative effects of illegal off-road driving in Joshua Tree National Park, park officials have announced plans to apply for the 2023 California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division (OHMVR) Restoration Grant.
The grant, which distributes $30 million annually to support restoration projects, would be used to fund several initiatives aimed at preserving the park’s natural beauty and protecting wildlife habitats.
Among the projects to be funded by the grant are monitoring programs to detect incursions and invasive vegetation caused by illegal off-road driving, as well as law enforcement patrolling to deter such activities.
Additionally, educational products and signs will be created to raise awareness and deter drivers from venturing off designated roads, while “hot-spot” locations will receive extensive fencing to prevent further damage.
The grant application will be available for public comment from March 7 to May 1, and interested parties are encouraged to visit the CA State Parks OHMVR website to review the application and provide feedback.
The website provides instructions on how to submit comments and offers information on the various grant categories available to federal, state, county, city, district, and educational institutions, as well as non-profit organizations and recognized tribes.
Park officials hope that the grant will enable them to take meaningful steps towards preserving the natural beauty of Joshua Tree National Park and ensuring that it remains a beloved destination for outdoor recreation and hospitality for generations to come.
For more information on the grant application or to provide feedback, please contact Outdoor Recreation Planner Amber Laird at 760-367-5691 or [email protected].
By applying for the California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division (OHMVR) Restoration Grant and using the funds to combat illegal off-road driving and protect wildlife habitats, Joshua Tree National Park is taking steps to preserve its natural beauty and ensure that it remains a beloved destination for outdoor hospitality and recreation for years to come.
Visitors can continue to enjoy hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities in a safe and sustainable environment, while also supporting the local hospitality industry.
By combating illegal off-road driving and protecting wildlife habitats, Joshua Tree National Park can ensure that the park remains a beautiful and safe destination for visitors. This can result in a more positive experience for guests, which in turn can benefit campground owners near the park.
Moreover, the proposed grant funding initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism in Joshua Tree National Park.
Campground owners near the park can leverage this focus on sustainability to promote their own environmentally conscious practices and attract guests who are interested in eco-friendly tourism.
This can help to establish the campgrounds as responsible and sustainable tourism providers, which can be a competitive advantage in the marketplace.