Twelve years after being founded, the Mojave Desert Land Trust, or MDLT, has stepped into a leading role in California desert conservation. The nonprofit’s recent annual report illustrates the scale of its acquisition and stewardship work, the speed at which its plant conservation program is growing, and its dedication to sound policy and public engagement.

Sandwiched between Apple Valley’s desert floor and the forested San Bernardino Mountains, Rock Springs Ranch boasts pristine desert, panoramic views, riparian areas, oddly formed boulders, three natural springs and caves where ancient artifacts have been found.MDLT officials say the purchase strengthens the status of the protected Juniper Flats.

Architect Ron Radziner of Marmol Radziner has joined the Mojave Desert Land Trust board of directors. In addition to having owned a family home in the high desert for many years, Radziner's firm is known for its extensive work on projects in the region, such as the restoration of Richard Neutra's Kaufmann House in Palm Springs, as well as forays into prefab home construction in the desert.

Noted architect Ron Radziner has been appointed to the Mojave Desert Land Trust’s Board of Directors, a move that brings an”exciting new dimension” to the accomplished group, according to organization officials.

The National Park Service has purchased hundreds of acres of private land within Death Valley National Park.Park officials released a statement today, saying the 680 acres are a “stunning” addition to the park’s cultural and geological history.The seven tracts were acquired from the Mojave Desert Land Trust, which purchases land from willing sellers for conservation purposes.

Death Valley National Park has grown slightly for the second time this year.The National Park Service on Tuesday announced the acquisition of just over 680 acres of private land at seven locations within the 3.4 million acre park 100 miles west of Las Vegas.The parcels were purchased from the Mojave Desert Land Trust, a California nonprofit that buys land from willing sellers for conservation purposes.