A letter that ran on the opinion page of the Record-Bee by Colusa County resident Ashley Indrieri genuinely bewildered me, because I attended the same meeting she did and we both heard the same talk about the proposed Berryessa Snow Mountain National Conservation Area.
After listening to that presentation and participating in the lively discussion that followed, how could she possibly believe that the proposal poses a threat to private landowners or to local community control? To the contrary, the designation would apply to existing federal public lands alone, with no impact whatsoever on surrounding property owners except to give them a greater voice in management.
The creation of a National Conservation Area would also provide public land managers with more effective tools to do their jobs, and also offer the possibility of additional funding.
The conservation values of this beautiful, biologically diverse place (a place even Ms. Indrieri agrees is “special”) will be cherished, preserved, and augmented. Residents can expect improved recreational opportunities and businesses may see substantial economic rewards. Providing greater diversity in Lake County”s attraction for visitors and extending the tourist season into the spring and fall will benefit the whole community, both directly and indirectly. What”s not to like?
The true advantages of this proposal are demonstrated by the unanimous endorsement recently voted by the Clearlake City Council, and by the hundreds of local businesses and individuals who have given it their approbation.
Victoria Brandon
Lower Lake
