The Conservation Alliance applauds President Obama for designating the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. This proclamation preserves 346,000 acres of federal land managed by the Angeles and San Bernardino National Forests. The new monument protects 70-percent of Los Angeles County’s open space, and ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to enjoy its outdoor recreation amenities.

The Conservation Alliance made two grants totaling $60,000 to the California Wilderness Coalition (CWC) to support the group’s efforts to protect the San Gabriels. CWC worked closely with a coalition of conservation organizations to build local support for the protections.

“The San Gabriel Mountains are the backyard open space for 15 million people who use the area for many forms of outdoor recreation,” said John Sterling, Executive Director of The Conservation Alliance. “By protecting the San Gabriels, President Obama leaves an important land legacy near one of our most populated urban areas.”

Congresswoman Judy Chu introduced legislation in June to establish the San Gabriel National Recreation Area, but that bill has become stuck in a Congress incapable of moving most legislation, no matter how broadly supported. President Obama has demonstrated a willingness to designate national monuments to protect places where Congress fails to act.

“Protecting places like the San Gabriel Mountains has strong support on the local level,” said Sterling. “The President is right to exercise his authority to preserve these places, and honor that local sentiment.”

Contacts:

John Sterling
541-389-2424
john@conservationalliance.com

Julie Evans
970-259-3555
julie@verdepr.com

Logo courtesy The Conservation Alliance