Cushenbury Mine Project (Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act (WJTCA) Incidental Take Permit No. 1927-ITP-2024-083-06 (ITP)

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has issued an incidental take permit to Mitsubishi Cement Corporation for the Cushenbury Mine Project, authorizing the incidental take of 2,896 western Joshua trees as a result of mining operations on approximately 278.2 acres in San Bernardino County. The project involves the development of two quarries—the South Quarry, which will operate over a 120-year period, and the West Pit, which is already underway and expected to continue for decades. Activities include clearing, grading, excavation, vegetation removal, road construction, blasting, and eventual reclamation, supported by both temporary and permanent haul roads. The permit is issued under Section 1927.3 of the Fish and Game Code and aligns with the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act and the California Endangered Species Act, ensuring compliance with legal protections for the threatened species. Mitigation and conservation measures are required to offset the impact of tree loss, with ongoing monitoring and reclamation efforts mandated as part of the permit conditions. Contract administration and oversight are managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in coordination with San Bernardino County officials, with point of contact provided for environmental and planning inquiries.