California Couple Fined $18,000 After Destroying and Burying Highly Protected Joshua Trees

A couple was fined $18,000 after removing 36 Joshua trees and burying them in a trench to create space for a residence. The fee is intended to deter others from mowing down the rare crooked-limbed plant, which is being evaluated for protection under California's endangered species statute.

Joshua trees are increasingly vulnerable to a variety of threats. Park employees returned to Joshua Tree National Park after the government shutdown ended in late January 2019 to find damaged trees, graffiti, and pathways. According to a retired park official, the damage was "irreparable for the next 200 to 300 years," according to a former park official.

According to researchers, only.02 percent of the species' current habitat in Joshua Tree National Park would be sustainable due to the climate catastrophe. Joshua trees have died off due to the hot, dry weather, and there are fewer young ones left.

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