On April 6, 2006, Representative Buck McKeon and Senators Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein introduced the Eastern Sierra Rural Heritage and Economic Enhancement Act (H.R. 5149 / S. 2567).  The legislation adds approximately 40,000 acres of wildlands to the existing Hoover and Emigrant Wilderness areas in California's dramatic Eastern Sierra. The area proposed for protection, which borders Yosemite National Park, features snow-capped peaks, deeply carved glacial valleys, fish-inhabited alpine lakes, lush meadows, and extensive conifer forests.  It also includes approximately eleven miles of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail as it weaves its way across the Sierra Crest.

The legislation also designates 24 miles of the Amargosa River in the California desert as a National Wild and Scenic River, which would forever protect this beautiful free-flowing river. The only river flowing into Death Valley, the Amargosa River is a fertile green sanctuary in a harsh desert setting. Seasonal for much of its winding 200-mile journey, this section of the Amargosa flows perennially. The waters of the Amargosa River are a true desert oasis that sustains more than 260 different types of birds, including several threatened and endangered species. The Amargosa River also offers outstanding recreational opportunities as it cuts through ancient, rugged canyons.

This legislation was the result of months of intense local negotiations that included a diverse array of interests.  The legislation has garnered broad support from local elected officials, business leaders, and community members, as well as the approval of the Governor of California.

In the summer of 2006, the legislation took two important steps forward when it was considered before the United States Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and the United States House of Representatives Committee on Natural Resources.  In each case, Bush Administration officials testified in support of the legislation.  The legislation now awaits further action in both the United States Senate and House of Representatives.

Contact

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