In the News

The Desert Sun
February 2, 2008

Letter to the Editor: Act to save open spaces

One of the best things about living here in the Coachella Valley is our access to so many places to go hiking, camping and horseback riding. Joshua Tree National Park, the Agua Tibia and San Jacinto areas, Beauty Mountain, Cahuilla Mountain and South Fork San Jacinto have become weekend getaways for a desert woman like myself.

Southern California is one of the fastest-growing regions in the nation, and places like Beauty Mountain with its beautiful springs and woodlands become harder to find. As a hiker, I treasure these wild spaces, not just for their exercise and recreation opportunities but also for their quiet and isolation. In our fast-paced and busy world, the peace that nature provides grows more important and appealing by the day.

The California Desert and Mountain Heritage Act, proposed this past year by the bipartisan coalition of Rep. Mary Bono and Sen. Barbara Boxer, demonstrates a commitment to preserving these last best places. It will ensure protection of these public lands for years to come so that both locals and visitors can experience the true beauty and variety that people really value about this wonderful area.

Jess Wall
Palm Springs