California Desert Contested in Alternative Energy Plans

"In a move that could pit usual allies -- environmentalists and the solar and wind industries -- against each other, Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) is preparing legislation that would permanently put hundreds of thousands of acres of desert land off limits to energy projects. The territory would be designated California's newest national monument."

"Feinstein disputed that she is engaged in a not-in-my-backyard campaign. 'I'm a strong supporter of renewable energy and clean technology -- but it is critical that these projects are built on suitable lands,' she said."

"The area of concern to Feinstein is between the Mojave National Preserve and Joshua Tree National Park, off old Route 66 between Ludlow and Needles. The area includes desert tortoise habitat, wildlife corridors, cactus gardens and the Amboy Crater -- an inactive volcanic crater where portions of the 1959 movie 'Journey to the Center of the Earth' were filmed."