California’s effort to protect the iconic Joshua tree is well-intentioned—but the law has led to unintended consequences for homeowners, developers, and public infrastructure projects. In this episode, we hear from Curtis Yakimow, town manager of Yucca Valley, and Madelaine LaVoie, a local resident and real estate broker, who explain how basic home repairs and building new housing have become increasingly difficult under the current permitting system.
While the law was designed to preserve a native species, its ripple effects may soon reach far beyond this desert town—impacting communities across Southern California where Joshua trees naturally grow. We take a closer look at the law’s real-world impact and the conversation around finding a balanced fix.
