Joshua trees are pretty common in the desert areas here in Southern California. As a matter of fact, there is a Joshua Tree National Park, about 120 miles east of me. Just over the Angeles National Forest from here, about 35 miles away, there are quite a few Joshuas as well, but I know that, at least in that area, cutting or removing any Joshua is not permitted---even if its on your own property! Don't think they'd be of much interest for turning, anyhow, as they're in the Yucca family, and are more than likely extremely fibrous.