California accepts petition to protect western Joshua tree

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FILE - In this May 19, 2020 file photo people visit Joshua Tree National Park in California. The western Joshua tree will be considered for protection under the California Endangered Species Act because of threats from climate change and habitat destruction, The state's Fish and Game Commission on Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2020, voted 4-0 to accept a petition that provides the yucca plants temporary protected status for one year while the agency conducts a study. After the review, commissioners will determine whether the species should be formally protected under the state law. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, file)