On September 27th, 2007 Representative Mary Bono (R-CA) and Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) introduced the “California Desert and Mountain Heritage Act” (H.R. 3682 / S. 2109). This legislation would protect over 200,000 acres of public lands by designating four new wilderness areas, adding to six existing wilderness areas, designating four wild and scenic rivers and adding to the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument.
These designations would provide protection to some of the richest and varied landscapes in California; from Mojave and Sonoran desert habitats in the east, to mixed pine, oak forest, chaparral and coastal sage scrub in the west. It includes essential habitat for threatened and endangered species including the mountain yellow legged frog, desert tortoise, Peninsular bighorn sheep, and Quino checkerspot butterfly.
The bill is broadly supported by over 50 local businesses, six cities and towns, Native American tribes, elected officials, equestrians, realtors and many other community leaders. “Riverside County’s unique environment is what drew many local residents to this special part of Southern California years ago. Californians and visitors from around the world also appreciate its scenic beauty, ecological importance and recreational possibilities. We should embrace the protection of these lands.”
-- Congresswoman Mary Bono
“Riverside County contains some of California’s most spectacular desert and mountain vistas and landscapes. This legislation will protect almost 200,000 acres of ecologically important public lands and help preserve them for future generations.”
-- Senator Barbara Boxer
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