The environment in the Coachella Valley is constantly being challenged by development and natural resource concerns. The following is a list of the organizations that play a major role in how the Coachella Valley will be shaped for future generations. Therefore if you are a developer or just a concerned citizen, we will do our best to keep you up to date with the most current environmental information that effects our beautiful Coachella Valley.

Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Plan
Finally approved after 14 years in the making   

    The Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP) is a plan that attempts to balance the needs of business and population growth, along side responsible conservation in the valley.  Goals include protecting the Coachella Valley's natural heritage while also building a strong local economy.
       CVMSHCP protects and conserves over 240,000 acres of land and 27 plant and animal species while encouraging balanced growth in local areas for recreation, tourism and job growth.   In exchange for a streamlined permitting process, a habitat mitigation fee of $5,730 per acre or $1,284 per residential unit for 1 to 8 units from all new development projects.  The funds raised will then be used to administer the plan and buy property in conserved areas to complete the reserve system planned for conservation.  The CVMSHCP also incorporates protection for the Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard and replaces the former "lizard fee.” 
       On September 9, 2008 the California Department of Fish and Game issued the Natural Community Conservation Plan (NCCP) Permit for the CVMSHCP.  Then on October 1, 2008, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issued the final permit for the CVMSHCP.
       The Coachella Valley Conservation Commission (CVCC) was formed for the purpose of implementing CVMSHCP.  CVCC will be working with member cities including Cathedral City, Coachella, Indian Wells, Indio, La Quinta, Palm Desert, Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, along with other county municipalities.  The Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) will provide administrative support and staffing for CVCC.

For more information about CVMSHCP you may go to their website at:
www.cvmshcp.org or call them at: (760) 346-1127

Friends Of The Desert Mountians