Our ongoing research focuses on identifying gene variants indicative of natural selection in response to drought and increasing aridity, significant challenges posed by global climate change in California. Leveraging our improved genome, our efforts are directed toward understanding genes associated with drought tolerance. A key aspect of our work involves assessing areas within the species' range that exhibit high genetic diversity and effective population sizes, which will aid in predicting potential for climate change adaptation. Additionally, we utilize molecular genetic estimations of gene flow to refine species distribution models under future climate scenarios. This research offers insights into the adaptive mechanisms of E. californica in arid climates, contributing to conservation and restoration efforts under changing environmental conditions.