Congressman Huffman (CA-2) introduced his Northwest California Wilderness, Recreation, and Working Forests Act today, putting California one step closer to celebrating the protection of nearly 350,000 acres of Wilderness and National Recreation Areas and 450 Wild & Scenic river miles.
“From the majestic Smith River to the ancient redwoods and old-growth forests, and the rugged mountains in between, our public lands are worth protecting and restoring for future generations to enjoy. Today, some of these landscapes are not fully protected, and others are not managed to their full potential: we can do more to ensure fire resilience, support healthy wildlife, and spur outdoor recreation. After hearing from countless constituents and stakeholders on my draft legislation to address these issues, I’m introducing the Northwest California Wilderness, Recreation, and Working Forests Act, a carefully developed bill to protect the communities and lands we value the most. I’m grateful for all the constituents who took the time to share their thoughts and innovative ideas, which ultimately shaped the bill I introduced today.” – Congressman Huffman
The proposal would conserve special places on public lands, restore forests and fish habitat, enhance recreation opportunities, boost local economies, and protect communities by reducing the risks of wildfire in Mendocino, Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity counties.
Click here to learn more about the region’s world-class recreation and how this bill would enhance and sustain it.
For years The Conservation Alliance has supported grassroots efforts to protect Northwest California’s mountains and rivers by awarding grants to California Wilderness Coalition. From postcard campaigns at our Backyard Collective in Northern California, to a 14-member formal letter of support, many California-based Conservation Alliance members have supplemented our grant making with advocacy aimed at thanking Congressman Huffman for his Public Lands leadership.
CamelBak, a longtime Conservation Alliance member, is headquartered in Congressman Huffman’s district and has gone above and beyond to share their support for protecting Northwest California’s recreation assets. To them, it’s personal. CamelBak was born on the back of a bike jersey on a 100-mile bike race. Nearly 30 years later its global headquarters sits in Petaluma, California, in part because of Northern California’s world-renowned outdoor recreation opportunities. The brand feels a responsibility to protect the places that fuel it, especially those special places in its backyard. We are grateful for CamelBak’s partnership and continued dedication to our shared wild places.
Click here for frequently asked questions and more information about the Northwest California Wilderness, Recreation, and Working Forests Act.
