Imagine, just imagine, a tree that that spreads out 90 feet long and 30 feet wide, but mostly growing underground. It is the Jurupa Oak, estimated to be between 13,000 and 18,000 years old. Having survived he ice age and rapid warming, it now faced the local planning commission bent on approving a large development which may do it in.
The developer has promised a 200-foot buffer but the question remains whether the asphalt parking lot would choke off the underground water that is feeding the tree. It belongs to a species called Palme’s oaks, a clonal network of genetically identical trees that are connected through an underground root system.
The Jurupa Valley Planning Commission says it is building housing to solve California’s housing crisis. Difficult to believe that this is the only area available and difficult to believe that the houses to be built will be for the low income folks who have been priced out of the market. Developers don’t build out of the goodness of their hearts – it’s about the money,
Prayer for the Day
Beneath the soil of your good earth, O Lord,
Are evidences of the antiquity of your creation;
Cloud billowing above us point to the firmament above,
Reminding us of your glory and majesty.
May we discover beauty in the most unlikely of places,
And peace within our hearts as the earth touches us.
In the name of the One who touches the earth,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
We have discovered a treasure on the world stage here in our humble city. Will one of the oldest living beings on the planet die just because Jurupa Valley okays industrial and business parks next to it?”
Jenny Iyer, a resident of Jurupa Valley
It’s mind-boggling, it really is — that we have this treasure that is not being protected.
Arleen Pruitt, chair pro tem of the Planning Commission
One generation shall laud your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.
On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate
The might of your awesome deeds shall be proclaimed, as I declare your greatness;
They shall celebrate our abundant goodness and sing aloud of your righteousness.
Psalm 145: 4-7