LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Support for a National Conservation Area (NCA) within the Berryessa Snow Mountain region is continuing to gain momentum.
On Wednesday Sen. Barbara Boxer introduced the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Conservation Area Act.
The bill, along with H.R. 5545 – which was introduced on May 8 by Reps. Mike Thompson, John Garamendi and Lynn Woolsey – will secure permanent protection of much of the federal public lands within this region.
“The Berryessa Snow Mountain region is one of California’s treasures, and this bill will help ensure that it is protected for future generations to enjoy,” said Boxer. “The designation of a new National Conservation Area will not only help preserve the region’s natural resources, it will also promote tourism and create jobs in local communities.”
“We’re thrilled that Sen. Boxer has chosen to introduce legislation to protect this beautiful region which is so rich in ecological diversity and cultural importance,” said Sara Husby, executive director for Tuleyome. “Sen. Boxer is a true champion for our public lands and wild places. It’s exciting to see so many of our local communities, businesses, elected officials, and recreation groups behind the proposal and support continues to grow.”
Whether it’s hiking to the 80 foot high Zim Zim waterfall, fly-fishing in Putah Creek, boating on Lake Berryessa, or viewing wildflowers and wildlife, the Berryessa Snow Mountain region offers something for everyone.
Tuleyome said protecting the area is a win-win for all. According to the group, an NCA will secure continued recreation opportunities and provide well-managed recreation and user education for future and current generations.
“This legislation will not only preserve a very special ecosystem of California, but also preserves opportunities for high quality recreation for mountain bicycling, hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, horseback riding, rafting and motorized use,” said Tom Ward, California policy director for the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA). “We are strongly supportive of efforts to protect sensitive habitats and to provide opportunities for the public to reconnect with the outdoors.”
Protecting special places not only increases recreational opportunities, but it also increases tourism, and creates a desirable place for people to live and work.
A recent study done by Headwaters Economics ( www.headwaterseconomics.org ) found that the counties around Giant Sequoia National Monument saw jobs grow by 11 percent and real personal income rise by 24 percent after the area was protected. It’s estimated that there is the same potential for the Berryessa Snow Mountain region.
“We are very pleased that Senator Boxer has introduced a companion bill in the Senate to protect the federal public lands of Berryessa Snow Mountain region as a National Conservation Area,” said Napa County Supervisor Diane Dillon. “The NCA designation will help to ensure that this region remains wild for our children and their children. It is not only good for the land but also for our local economies, which will benefit from the income and revenue generated by those who come to enjoy the outdoors in such a special area. We look forward to passage of this legislation.”
Visit www.berryessasnowmountain.org for more information.