What can we do?

The naturally arid landscape and harsh weather conditions make it unlikely that the Mojave Desert will be naturally restored anytime soon. So scientists have begun to turn to more active methods to restore the ecosystem of the Mojave Desert.

Although attempts have been made to replant endangered plant species, continued OHV and grazing prevent long-term effects, making these ventures all but futile. If plant re-growth is to be promoted, the first step required is to regulate, or possibly even ban the damaged areas from further invasion by vehicles and livestock; providing well-maintained irrigation has also showed promising results in restoring native plant species (Lovich). Fences, barbed wire, or even straw bales that do not contain nonnative seedlings or weeds may be utilized to form barriers around protected sites (Webb 386). Another way to promote vegetation growth and also restore the natural landscape of the desert is to decompose the soil to reverse soil compaction—plowing the land can help lessen soil compaction, though it may promote soil erosion instead. Existing plants at the site must be carefully preserved, so that the roots hold the soil together and reduce the negative effects of plowing (Webb 387). The method most commonly used today to restore the desert ecosystem is called mulching; this method either covers up manmade trails with natural vegetation, or sets up stacks of straw or brush upright in the soil (Webb 389). By doing so, this process helps the soil recover and restores the natural look of the landscape, protecting it from further invasion by OHV drivers who tend to stay on clearly marked trails (Webb 388).

A study conducted by Lori Hunter predicts that up to 80% of native plants and animals may be preserved if the area of desert land used in urban development in the Mojave is compacted (Hunter). However, planning land development in the desert requires money and data, neither of which has been in abundance for the land managers who are charged with caring for the land (Webb 379). One of the most important things needed for the reconstruction and preservation of the Mojave Desert is information—more studies must be conducted to have more accurate rainfall predictions, a more complete record of historical damages done to the landscape, and a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between global environmental changes and changes in the Mojave (Webb 169). Only when the causes and effects of environmental degradation have been assessed can we begin to take steps to reverse the damages.

Works Cited:

http://www.springerlink.com/content/pg318mg147228070/fulltext.pdf

Webb, Robert H., Lynn F. Fenstermaker, Jill S. Heaton, Debra L. Hughson, Eric V. Mcdonald, and David M. Millar, eds. The Mojave Desert: Ecosystem Processes and Sustainability. Reno, Nevada: University of Nevada Press, 2009. Print.

http://www.springerlink.com/content/pyhr28ncjnt8ppuc/fulltext.pdf