The Grand Wash Cliffs peak through joshua trees near Grapevine Mesa. This area, often called Arizona’s Joshua Tree Forest, is home to the world’s largest and densest forest of old growth joshua trees. It’s truly an astoundingly gorgeous area. While a portion of the forest has been designated a National Natural Landmark and an “Area of Critical Environmental Concern,” these classifications offer no real protection. I’ve been working with some committed local residents to help steward the forest and advocate for its permanent protection as a national monument managed through BLM’s National Conservation Lands system. If you’d like to support such efforts, please visit joshuatreeforest.org or contact me.
