Our Desert:

What makes the Coachella Valley Special?

• Extreme Conditions

  The Coachella Valley region ranges from below sea level to the highest peaks in Southern California - an 11,000 foot difference! Temperatures go from below freezing in the mountains, to blazing hot summer highs.

• In the Shadow of the Mountains

  These conditions are the result of geography - mountains to the west create a "rain shadow" over the valley. The average annual rainfall is about 6 inches in Palm Springs, and only about 3 inches in Coachella.

• Unique Landscape

  Deserts, mountains, rivers, and seas all come together in the Coachella Valley. Our combination of high and low elevations, hot and cold temperatures, droughts and flash floods, is unique!

• Unique Wildlife

  Within these landscapes, plants and animals have adapted to survive. Living on the edge leads to new strategies, and many plants and animals in the desert are found nowhere else on Earth!

• Unique Community

  Diverse communities have made the Coachella Valley their home - indigenous Cahuilla, farmworkers, retirees, celebrities, and more. Our unique experiences with the desert combine to create a special place!

• A Resilient Future

  Today inequality, urban sprawl, and climate change threaten the unique and diverse communities found here. Working together, we can adapt to change and build a more resilient future.

• Protect Our Home

  Caring for our home is up to all of us, and involves decisions big and small. Understand and contribute to relationships between people, plants, animals, and climate.

• Act Now!

  Start by going outside, on the trail or in your neighborhood. Practice Leave No Trace principles, and use water wisely in the desert. You can make a difference in our community!