One of the true champions of the desert has passed away. Z107.7 News was informed of the death of Donna Charpied, 61, who, along with her husband Larry, fought for decades to keep the area around Eagle Mountain free of mega-dumps, commercial solar farms, hydroelectric projects and other threats to the region just adjacent to Joshua Tree National Park. In 2005, the Charpieds were honored with the prestigious Minerva Hoyt Award, established to recognize individuals or organizations whose efforts led to a significant and lasting contribution on behalf of California deserts, as well as many honors and accolades for their selfless efforts to protect the desert environment.
