2,200 Miles of Mojave Desert Trails Closed, Causing Celebration for Some and Frustration for Others

A recent ruling by a federal judge has resulted in the closure of approximately 2,200 miles of off-highway vehicle (OHV) routes in the Western Mojave Desert, a decision aimed at safeguarding the threatened desert tortoise. U.S. District Judge Susan Illston’s order mandates the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to enforce strict closures in designated critical habitats, which also include areas important for the Lane Mountain milk-vetch, another threatened species.

Judge Illston’s directive specifies that while all off-highway vehicle routes within these critical habitats must be closed, designated county roads and highways will remain open for necessary access. This ruling follows a significant legal challenge initiated by six environmental organizations, who argued that the BLM’s 2019 approval of 6,000 miles of off-road trails inadequately considered the potential impacts on local wildlife. This plan spans multiple counties, including San Bernardino, Riverside, Kern, and Inyo, and includes popular recreational areas stretching from Joshua Tree National Park to Barstow.

The desert tortoise, a symbol of California’s desert ecology, has been federally classified as a threatened species since 1990. With a lifespan of up to 80 years, these reptiles take nearly two decades to reach maturity for breeding, making their protection all the more crucial. The ruling highlights the ongoing threats to this species, particularly from off-roading activities, which have been correlated with significant declines in tortoise populations.

The Lane Mountain milk-vetch, the only known habitat of which is located north of Barstow, is another focal point of the protection efforts. This rare legume faces similar threats as the desert tortoise, prompting legal action from environmental advocates.

The response to the ruling has sharply divided stakeholders. Environmentalists have lauded the decision as a necessary step toward preserving fragile ecosystems, while off-roading enthusiasts and local business advocates criticize it as governmental overreach. Proponents of off-roading argue that the closure of these trails threatens rural economies that rely heavily on recreational tourism, asserting that without responsible access to public lands, communities could suffer economically.

Local officials, including San Bernardino County Supervisor Dawn Rowe, have expressed frustration with the ruling and advocated for an appeal. They argue that access to public lands is critical for community well-being and economic vitality. The BLM has yet to decide on an appeal.

As the situation remains fluid, it underscores the complex balance between conservation needs and recreational access in ecologically sensitive areas. The forthcoming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether these closures will stand or whether further legal actions will reshape the landscape of off-roading in the Western Mojave Desert.