SACRAMENTO, CA – Today, Assemblymember Greg Wallis introduced Assembly Concurrent Resolution 8 (ACR 8), establishing the second Saturday of January as World Desert Day in California.
“Deserts are among the most vibrant yet least understood ecosystems,” said Assemblymember Wallis. “They are home to unique species like the desert tortoise and are vital to California’s ecological health and biodiversity. Yet, these fragile landscapes face significant threats due to habitat destruction and climate change.”
The resolution seeks to:
- Raise awareness about the value of desert ecosystems.
- Promote conservation efforts like the Living Desert’s Headstarting Project, which protects the threatened desert tortoise.
- Celebrate the communities and wildlife that depend on deserts.
“Our desert district is proud to host incredible conservation work, like the Living Desert’s project ensuring the survival of the desert tortoise,” Wallis continued. “Recognizing World Desert Day gives us an opportunity to honor these efforts and ensure the future of these vital landscapes for future generations.”
Deserts such as the Mojave, Sonoran, and Colorado play a critical role in California’s environmental and cultural identity. ACR 8 is a step toward safeguarding their future while fostering education and sustainable practices.
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