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 Strategic Planning
Chino Canyon Preservation Strategy
Strategy development to support preservation of open space and a rare natural environment in the Coachella Valley
Located in Coachella Valley, in the low deserts of Southern California and along the urban edge of the City of Palm Springs, the Chino Canyon alluvial fan is a very unique natural environment. The area is one of only three locations in the world and the only location in the United States where a geologic transition from the desert floor to alpine peaks occurs. A number of distinct biomes exist in this rare transect. Rugged mountains and sweeping desert landscapes create stunning vistas and establish an easily recognizable and incredibly distinct gateway to Palm Springs. The alluvial fan, when combined with the greater San Jacinto Mountain, is rich in biodiversity and sustains a variety of valuable wildlife, plant species, and ecosystems. Not only does the alluvial fan provide habitat for plants and special animals like the Big Horn Sheep, it also gives local residents and visitors opportunities to enjoy nature in an exceptional way.
Like many natural resources near an urban setting, this scenic and biological asset has various challenges. The Chino Canyon is held under a complex set of ownerships that range from a local Indian tribe, private landowners and public agencies who have varying interests in land use. In addition, a Specific Plan is still needed for the Indian-owned land, protection of the viewshed along the main entry road is inadequate, and potential development in the Canyon is a constant threat.
The Riverside Land Conservancy (RLC) and The Dangermond Group (TDG) have been retained by The Friends of the Palm Springs Mountains to work with a consortium of local groups committed to actively and effectively working together to find a solution that balances the environmental benefits of preservation with economic profitability. Meetings with public officials, developers, landowners and environmental interest groups have sought to establish common interests and goals. In order to accomplish the dual goals of preserving the natural resources while creating economic opportunities, TDG, with stakeholder input, is working on the development of several strategies such as:
- Establishing a hiking and biking trail system
- Developing a world-class visitor and interpretive center
- Locating development in already disturbed portions of the area and establishing strict development guidelines which preserve natural, aesthetic, viewshed, and recreation values
- Density transfers entailing an 80% open space retention requirement
By working together with all interested parties, RLC and TDG are assisting the stakeholders in navigating through a variety of potentially conflicting needs and interests in order to develop a mutually agreed-upon resolution. A final agreement has the opportunity to create opportunities for education, recreation, and preservation of irreplaceable and unique natural and cultural resources unlike any other in the United States as well as develop a true community asset with long-term economic return.
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