On May 22, 2008, Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Representative Howard "Buck" McKeon (R-Santa Clarita) introduced the Eastern Sierra and Northern San Gabriel Wild Heritage Act. From the White Mountains, America's highest desert mountain range, to the Amargosa River in Death Valley, the proposal includes some of the region's most treasured natural wonders. These include the proposed Owens River Headwaters Wilderness and Wild & Scenic River which would protect the headwaters of the Eastern Sierra's most important river system, the proposed White Mountains Wilderness and the specially-designated Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, which contains the world's oldest living trees.

In addition to preserving wilderness areas and wild rivers, the bill will enhance other recreational opportunities and serve as a boost to the region's tourism-based economy.

Leading conservation groups joined business owners, sportsmen and community leaders in their support of Boxer and McKeon's legislation. The legislation was introduced just in time for Memorial Day and the unofficial start of summer, a time when recreation enthusiasts flock to this area.

Download a fact sheet about the bill including detailed descriptions of the areas included in this legislation.

Find more information on local efforts and outreach.

Contact

Please get in touch with The Wilderness Society's Sally Miller for more information about the Eastern Sierra and Northern San Gabriel Mountains.