Start Here: Why the Moreno Valley Conservancy Exists
This blog features community commentary, editorial opinions, visual interpretations, and based on publicly available documents. Some images, whether labeled or stylized, are included for advocacy and awareness purposes. They may not represent final or official development plans.
The Situation
Moreno Valley has experienced significant development since the 1980s, transforming much of the area into suburban neighborhoods. However, the eastern side has remained largely rural, and for good reason. The Moreno Badlands Conservancy plays a pivotal role in preserving these open spaces as the closer you get to the hills, the more challenging development becomes due to natural hazards and environmental sensitivities. Past planners recognized this and maintained low-density zoning east of Nason Road, preserving open spaces near the foothills.
Recently, there’s been a push to change this. Developers are seeking General Plan Amendments (GPAs) to increase zoning densities, making the land more attractive for high-density projects. This process, akin to “flipping” land, involves reclassifying rural areas to accommodate more intensive development, often without fully addressing the inherent risks.
Why We’re Concerned
There are numerous reasons to approach these developments with caution. The Moreno Badlands Conservancy highlights many of the challenges and risks associated with unmanaged growth:
Fire Risk: Unmanaged brush in the foothills fuels wildfires. In our region, it’s not a matter of if a fire will occur but when.
Flooding: The area is prone to flash floods during intense storms, a reality well-known to long-time residents.
Seismic Activity: Proximity to the San Jacinto Fault Zone means that some proposed developments are near, or even atop, active fault lines.
Wildlife Displacement: The hills are home to various species, some protected, whose habitats are threatened by encroaching development.
Infrastructure Challenges: The lack of existing infrastructure, such as sewer lines, leads to makeshift solutions that may not be sustainable or safe.
Without careful consideration, these developments risk becoming hazardous, makeshift solutions that overlook the well-documented dangers of the area, which the Moreno Badlands Conservancy strives to mitigate.
Why We Need the Moreno Badlands Conservancy
To effectively address these concerns, an organized and unified community response is essential. Here’s why establishing a conservancy is crucial:
- Unified Representation: An organized group provides a clear, collective voice, ensuring that the concerns of residents are heard and considered in planning decisions.
- Credibility: A conservancy carries weight in discussions with developers and government agencies, lending authority to community perspectives.
- Advocacy for All: Not every resident can attend meetings or articulate their concerns. The conservancy can represent those who are unable or hesitant to speak out.
- Environmental Stewardship: The conservancy can work to protect the area’s natural resources, ensuring that development does not come at the expense of environmental degradation.
- Informed Oversight: By staying informed and engaged, the Moreno Badlands Conservancy can hold developers accountable, ensuring that projects meet safety and environmental standards.
Protection for Future Residents: High-density zoning signals future development. It’s our responsibility to ensure that these areas are safe and suitable for future inhabitants, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
What You Can Do
If our mission resonates with you, here’s how you can get involved:
- Sign Up: Join the conservancy—it’s free. Encourage every member of your household to sign up as well. A comprehensive membership helps us accurately represent community interests.
- Stay Informed: Follow our blog and social media channels for updates on developments, meetings, and ways to participate in the Moreno Badlands Conservancy.
- Review Our Research: We compile and share information on proposed projects, environmental assessments, and zoning changes to keep you informed.
- Participate in Public Comment: Your voice matters. We provide resources to help you craft effective public comments that address key issues.
- Engage Your Neighbors: Share information about the conservancy with friends and neighbors. A well-informed community is a strong community.
- Volunteer: If you’re interested in taking a more active role, reach out to us. We welcome volunteers to assist with research, outreach, and other initiatives.
Together, we can ensure that development in Moreno Valley is thoughtful, responsible, and in harmony with the environment and community needs.
