California will observe World Desert Day on January 11, 2025, to highlight the significance of deserts globally and raise awareness about their contribution to biodiversity, climate resilience, and human life. The annual observance takes place on the second Saturday in January and has received official recognition from the State of California.
The initiative for World Desert Day began with The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Greater Palm Springs, which launched the event in January 2024. The effort aimed to fill a gap by creating a global day dedicated to desert ecosystems. After a year of advocacy involving state and local leaders, bipartisan resolutions were passed by both chambers of the California legislature. Proclamations supporting the observance also came from Palm Desert, Indian Wells, and Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz.
“Deserts are among the most diverse and resilient ecosystems on the planet, yet they are often misunderstood and overlooked,” said Allen Monroe, president and CEO of The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. “World Desert Day highlights the importance of these landscapes while encouraging action to protect the species and communities that depend on them.”
Desert environments support many specialized plant and animal species that face threats such as climate change, habitat loss, invasive species, and other human impacts. These organisms are vital for maintaining healthy desert habitats as well as broader ecological systems.
To mark its first celebration of World Desert Day, The Living Desert will organize an event at its facility featuring scavenger hunts with desert themes, opportunities for visitors to connect with animals, plant sales, educational trading cards, and participation from 11 conservation partners.
Globally, deserts make up over one-third of Earth’s land area and provide homes for more than one-sixth of people worldwide. Despite receiving less than 10 inches of rain each year on average, deserts vary widely in type—including hot/dry regions as well as semi-arid zones—and play host to diverse cultures and livelihoods.
World Desert Day encourages individuals and organizations to participate in conservation efforts through activities such as attending events related to desert preservation or volunteering with relevant groups. Supporters can also help by planting native vegetation or advocating for protective measures at various government levels.
More information about World Desert Day is available at LivingDesert.org.
Allen Monroe added that The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a nonprofit accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It engages in global conservation through research projects, habitat protection initiatives, breeding programs for endangered species, education outreach efforts locally as well as internationally.
