Palm Trees to Joshua Trees: Virtual Exploration of California’s Deserts

Though lacking in what you might think of as a traditional forest, Southern California is full of spectacular drylands flora. Wander through highlights of Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley, witnessing deserts both natural and man-made. Learn about date palm trees, which cover 3% of the earth’s cultivated surface and grow four million tons of dates each year. Discover the scale of massive wind turbines in the desert – the largest of which are 150 feet tall, with blades half the length of a football field – and find out just how much electricity they provide for surrounding areas. You may have even caught sight of these huge windmills in the movie, Rain Man! Experience the majesty of Joshua Tree National Park, where two distinct desert ecosystems (the Mojave and the Colorado) come together, and find out how the iconic tree got its name. With so much stunning scenery to take in and so many stories to hear, you won’t want to miss this fascinating virtual journey!