A climate solution lies a mile underground. But who will reap its benefits?
July 7, 2025 – Yale Climate Connections A climate solution lies a mile underground. But who will reap its benefits? Beneath California’s Imperial Valley lies a vast reservoir of potential—both in clean energy and community opportunity. A new wave of interest is focused on extracting lithium from geothermal brine, a method that could revolutionize battery production while offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional mining. As “Lithium Valley” takes shape, local leaders and residents are working to ensure this green boom delivers economic justice along with climate solutions. The article includes an interview with Dr. Manuel Pastor, Director of the…
Keep readingAudubon California report reveals a 15% overall increase per year in shorebirds at the Salton Sea
July 2, 2025 – Imperial Valley Press Audubon California report reveals a 15% overall increase per year in shorebirds at the Salton Sea A new science brief from Audubon California reports a sharp rise in shorebird populations at the Salton Sea, driven by expanding wetland habitat. Between 2016 and 2023, waterbird numbers grew by an average of 15% per year, with a stunning 250,000 shorebirds recorded in a single day during an August 2023 survey. The report highlights how birds are responding to habitat changes and offers recommendations to support a healthier, more sustainable Salton Sea—an essential stopover for migratory…
Keep readingParks California Invites Community and Tribal Organizations to Apply for 2026 Route to Parks Grants
June 26, 2025 – California State Parks Parks California Invites Community and Tribal Organizations to Apply for 2026 Route to Parks Grants California State Parks and Parks California today announced the opening of the 2026 Route to Parks grant application period, inviting California-based community and tribal organizations to apply for funding that helps remove transportation and access barriers to California’s 280 state parks. This grant continues Parks California’s commitment to ensuring that all Californians — regardless of background or location — can experience the health, cultural and recreational benefits of time in nature. Applications for the 2026 Route to Parks…
Keep readingState Inaugurates Water Flows into Salton Sea Restoration Project
May 22, 2025: Audubon.org State Inaugurates Water Flows into Salton Sea Restoration Project Representatives of conservation and community groups celebrated today at the Salton Sea as state officials began filling the 750-acre Species Conservation Habitat Project (SCH) East Pond Expansion. Together with the just-filled East Pond, California will soon have more than 2000 acres of habitat acres at the Salton Sea, California’s largest lake and the linchpin in the state’s efforts to protect critical reservoir storage along the imperiled Colorado River. Read full article here.
Keep readingGeologically rich but economically poor, Salton Sea communities want a say in their lithium future
May 14, 2025: CalMatters Geologically rich but economically poor, Salton Sea communities want a say in their lithium future The Salton Sea region in California is poised to become a major hub for lithium extraction, a key component in batteries for electric vehicles and electronics. As this industry grows, local communities—many of which have long faced environmental and economic challenges—are demanding a voice in shaping their future. To address these concerns, State Senator Steve Padilla has introduced Senate Bill 534, which proposes creating a “green empowerment zone” around the Salton Sea. The initiative would direct public funds and private investments…
Keep readingSalton Sea Authority Launches $22.3M Study to Guide Restoration
April 28, 2025: NBC Palm Springs Salton Sea Authority Launches $22.3M Study to Guide Restoration The Salton Sea Authority has announced a $22.3 million feasibility study to develop a realistic, long-term restoration plan for the entire Salton Sea. Formed in 1993, the Authority coordinates local leaders, agencies, and community input to align projects with state restoration efforts. The study marks a major step toward sustainable ecosystem solutions based on available resources. Work is ongoing, with continued updates expected from NBC Palm Springs and the Authority. Read the full article here.
Keep readingSalton Sea Management Program Update: Water Reaches First Pond of Major Restoration Effort
April 2, 2025: Salton Sea Management Project Salton Sea Management Program Update: Water Reaches First Pond of Major Restoration Effort As the largest restoration effort at the Salton Sea—the Species Conservation Habitat (SCH) Project—continues to expand, we’ve reached a critical milestone: water is now flowing into the first pond, known as the East Pond. This month, a mix of Salton Sea and New River water began filling the East Pond. Once full by the end of May, water will begin flowing into the adjacent East Pond 1 Expansion Pond. Together, these ponds will support approximately 2,000 acres—just over three square…
Keep readingThe Salton Sea’s weirdness is what’s appealing
February 3, 2025: Writers on the Range The Salton Sea’s weirdness is what’s appealing In his article “The Salton Sea’s Weirdness Is What’s Appealing,” Dennis Hinkamp reflects on the unique allure of California’s Salton Sea. He describes its origins from a 1905 Colorado River flood and its subsequent decline due to increasing salinity and environmental challenges. Despite these issues, the area remains a haven for artists, winter visitors, and those drawn to its peculiar charm. Hinkamp highlights the juxtaposition of nearby affluent Palm Springs and the bohemian Slab City, as well as the remnants of mid-20th-century resorts along the shore.…
Keep readingMassive Salton Sea lithium project gets judge’s go-ahead, ending advocates’ lawsuit
January 29, 2025: Cal Matters Massive Salton Sea lithium project gets judge’s go-ahead, ending advocates’ lawsuit An Imperial County judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by civic and environmental groups against the Hell’s Kitchen lithium mining project at the Salton Sea, allowing the $1.8 billion initiative to proceed. The plaintiffs argued that the project’s environmental review inadequately addressed potential impacts on water supply and air quality and failed to consult with local Native American tribes as required by law. The court ruled that the developer, Controlled Thermal Resources, met the necessary requirements. While the decision is expected to boost U.S.…
Keep readingProclamation on the Establishment of the Chuckwalla National Monument
On January 14, 2025, President Biden designated Chuckwalla National Monument in Southern California and Sáttítla Highlands National Monument in Northern California. Tribal leaders, elected officials, and community members celebrated the move, highlighting its significance for conservation, climate action, and tribal heritage. Senator Alex Padilla praised the designation as a major step in protecting public lands, wildlife, and sacred sites while promoting clean energy and equitable access to nature. Chuckwalla National Monument will span over 624,000 acres south of Joshua Tree National Park, supporting tribal sovereignty, the local economy, and outdoor access, with boundaries designed to avoid conflict with renewable energy…
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