Desert Pupfish Conservation on Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians (TMDCI) Land
Summary
SCH Number
2026080145
Public Agency
California Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy
(CVMC)
Document Title
Desert Pupfish Conservation on Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians (TMDCI) Land
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
8/6/2026
Document Description
The proposed Project includes the creation of two new ponds for the endangered desert pupfish on Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians land, adjacent to the Whitewater Channel which connects to the Salton Sea. The ponds would provide breeding habitat and serve as a refugia for the desert pupfish to help ensure
sustainable population genetic diversity, be a backup for desert pupfish populations, and would be available for release back into natural watercourses in the Salton Sink
basin. These ponds will also serve as high-quality freshwater drinking and feeding resources that will be available for many species (migratory birds and local wildlife) to
use as they are traversing the area.
Contact Information
Name
Diana Rosas
Agency Name
Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy
Job Title
Associate Director
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency
Phone
Email
Name
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Agency Name
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Contact Types
Project Applicant
Phone
Email
Location
Cities
Mecca
Counties
Riverside
Regions
Southern California, Unincorporated
Cross Streets
Lincoln Street and 73rd Avenue
Other Location Info
On Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians land.
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
Class 4, Section 15304 and Class 33, Section 15333
Reasons for Exemption
The project does not include "unusual circumstances," and incorporation of best management practices (BMPs) would ensure the Project would result in no impact on the environment. Therefore, the categorical exemptions described in CEQA Guidelines 15304(d)(f) and 15333 apply, as the Project involves minor alterations to land and is a small habitat restoration project.
County Clerk
Riverside
Attachments
Notice of Exemption
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