Congresswoman Judy Chu (D-CA) recently published a discussion draft of legislation to designate the San Gabriel Mountains and river corridor as a National Recreation Area. Representative Chu has worked with a wide range of stakeholders to draft a legislative proposal that provides for additional resources, more stakeholder control, and a balance between recreational opportunities and water management. The legislation provides for a diverse public advisory council, a comprehensive management plan, and visitor access plan, and a partnership among federal, state, tribal, and local authorities and the private sector. The public advisory council would include environmental justice representation to help ensure the area serves the needs of all people, including people of color and low-income people. Related legislation would provide Wilderness and Wild and Scenic River protections for upper reaches of the mountains.
Xavier Morales, Executive Director of Latino Coalition for a Healthy California, writes,
The San Gabriel draft legislation to create a National Recreation Area aligns with our mission to address inequities in the environmental conditions that contribute to health disparities among our communities. Lack of recreational opportunities has severe impacts on urban populations struggling with obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and chronic illness. Opportunities to enjoy outdoor activity are vital for public health and the well-being of people of all ages and walks of life.
