PALM DESERT — Someone is swiping the cactuses in this upscale desert city.
Over the last six months, there has been an epidemic of thefts. Officials say they have lost nearly $20,000 worth of the plants. The main target is the golden barrel, which, depending on its size, can fetch anywhere from $100 to $800 each.
The problem is so bad that surveillance cameras have gone up near large concentrations of cactuses in urban landscaping, and authorities expect to implant microchips into the barrels soon to track their whereabouts.
"Each microchip has a scannable bar code that tells who owns it," said Police Lt. Frank Taylor. "The odds are that we won't microchip every plant, but it will have a deterrent effect."
A few years ago this upscale city of golf resorts and retirees began shedding its lush grass and artificial turf for a landscape more in keeping with its austere, sun-blasted environment.
Out went the phony greenery and over-watered lawns. In came sand, along with succulents, cactuses and other hot-weather plants. Median strips around town and public spaces were soon studded with spiny, twisted flora.
"The city decided to stop apologizing for the desert and said, 'We live in the desert; it is what it is,' " said city landscape manager Spencer Knight.
But with the transformation nearly complete, the thefts began.
The city's visitor center lost 50 cactuses in one night, and criminals have hit private property as well.
"We have seized 15 to 20 barrels at a time," Taylor said. "They have a very shallow root system and can be popped out pretty easily. People have been digging them up in broad daylight."
Palm Desert isn't the only city targeted by thieves, who often resell their booty to landscapers and nurseries. They also struck last year in Yucaipa, which saw a rash of sago palm thefts. In Indio, police say they have seen cactuses stolen from building sites.
State and national parks have also been hit.
Saguaro National Park near Tucson recently had 17 large saguaros taken.
Chief Ranger Bob Love said the park also plans to microchip its cactuses.
"In some cases the thieves work for landscapers, and in other cases they are independent contractors who sell the saguaro to legitimate commercial operations," Love said. "Depending on the size and shape, or if it has arms, they sell for anywhere from $500 to $5,000 or more each."
