Senator Boxer Introduces Riverside County Wilderness Bill

October 16, 2007

I recently introduced the California Desert and Mountain Heritage Act, which would add new areas to the Santa Rosa-San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, designate new wilderness areas, and designate 31 miles of Wild and Scenic Rivers in Riverside County. In a region that is growing as rapidly as Riverside County, I’m working to preserve these areas so that our children and grandchildren will be able to enjoy the wonders of these wild places.

My legislation would provide federal wilderness designation to more than 150,000 acres of federal land.  This means that mining, logging and other uses that require mechanical devices would be banned.  However, these areas will remain open to hiking, backpacking, camping and other low-impact uses.  Lands intended for wilderness designation include areas in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains and areas in and near Joshua Tree National Park.

The bill also adds to the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument, which rings the Coachella Valley on the south and west.  For many, these mountains are truly the signature of the Coachella Valley, rising up from the desert floor and providing both spectacular views and a home for the Peninsular bighorn sheep, mountain lion and other wildlife.  Representative Mary Bono has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

Sincerely,

Barbara Boxer
United States Senator

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