Description: The 488-acre property of King Clone Ecological Reserve is predominantly a flat, level area with creosote bush scrub vegetation. Creosote bushes can produce offshoots or "clones" that grow in circular clusters. Older parts of the clone die, while younger parts persist, resulting in individuals that are thousands of years old and are among the oldest living organisms on earth. Wildlife on the Reserve includes various species of reptiles, rodents, birds and insects.
In 1985, Assembly Bill #1024 authorized the Department to acquire property for the protection of ancient creosote rings in the Mojave Desert, and allocated funds for this specific purpose. The property was designated as an ecological reserve by the Fish and Game Commission in 1993. The long-term objective for this property is to ensure the protection of these unusual creosote rings from possible destruction and for future educational values.
For more information, call the Inland Deserts Region's Ontario office at (909) 484-0167