John Hart’s essay, “Making a national monument from scratch,” (HCN, 5/25/15) beautifully illustrated the unique history and landscape of the Berryessa Snow Mountain region and the tremendous work it takes to ensure permanent protection for our public lands. It is important to underscore that the effort to designate these lands as a national monument is supported by the California State Assembly and Senate and a diverse group of interests, including local business owners, nearby cities, five counties within the boundaries of the designation, private landowners, citizens, farmers, conservationists and a variety of recreation groups. Protection of these lands will provide an environmental and economic benefit to the region for generations to come, and allow visitors to continue to experience the area’s natural splendor.
Bill Dodd
California State Assembly
Napa, California
This article appeared in the print edition of the magazine with the headline Monument-making.
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