Overview

A ghost town located near Joshua Tree in Riverside County has recently been sold for $22.6 million. The buyer, identified as Ecology Mountain Holdings, LLC, has sparked curiosity regarding their intentions for the 10,000-acre site known as Eagle Mountain.

The sale took place on April 17, and the identity of the owners of Ecology Mountain Holdings remains undisclosed. The company is based in Cerritos, California, which is also home to Ecology Transportation Services, although a connection between the two has not been confirmed.

Key details

  • The ghost town is known as Eagle Mountain.
  • It was sold for $22.6 million.
  • The buyer is Ecology Mountain Holdings, LLC.
  • The purchase occurred on April 17.
  • The site covers 10,000 acres.
  • Eagle Mountain was originally an iron mining town.
  • Kaiser Steel began operations there after World War II.
  • The mine ceased operations in 1983.
  • Various proposals for the site have been made over the years, including a landfill and recycling center.
  • The last known proposal was for a $2.5-billion hydropower facility by Eagle Crest Energy Co.
  • Conservation groups opposed the hydropower proposal due to concerns over groundwater depletion.
  • Eagle Crest Energy Co. sold the property along with its mining claims to the mystery buyer.

Context

The history of Eagle Mountain as a mining town and the subsequent decline of the U.S. steel industry have shaped its current status as a ghost town. Despite numerous proposals for redevelopment, none have successfully materialized, leaving the area largely abandoned.

What happens next

With the acquisition of Eagle Mountain by Ecology Mountain Holdings, there is considerable anticipation regarding potential future developments. However, the company has not provided any statements or plans, leaving the community and observers in suspense.

What we don't know yet

Key details that remain unconfirmed include the identity of the owners of Ecology Mountain Holdings, their specific plans for the site, and any connections to Ecology Transportation Services.