Pew Praises Committee Action on Los Padres Wilderness Bill

Press Releases and Statements June 28, 2012 Read time:

Projects: U.S. Public Lands

Legislation protects more than 66,000 acres in southern California

Jim Mathews, policy manager of Pew's Campaign for America's Wilderness, issued the following statement commending the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands for holding a hearing today on legislation to safeguard 66,042 acres as wilderness in California's Los Padres National Forest.

“Congressman Gallegly's legislation would enhance the historic legacy of the Los Padres National Forest, which includes the first administratively protected primitive area to be designated as wilderness under the Wilderness Act of 1964—the San Rafael. The unique and environmentally sensitive lands in this bill are adjacent to the San Rafael and its Sisquoc Condor Sanctuary and complement this vital breeding ground for the California condor, a species that had all but vanished just 25 years ago.

“Working in collaboration with his constituents, Congressman Gallegly has developed legislation that protects the solitude and beauty of the Los Padres, as well as the many recreational activities available in the forest. The bill will ensure that future generations have the same opportunities to fish, hike, camp, and watch wildlife that visitors to the Los Padres have today. We look forward to working with the congressman to move this legislation through the House and Senate.”