CONSERVATION NEWS

Ever since the election, where conservation initiatives took a beating, things have been quiet. We did, however, have a notable victory in Anza Borrego State Park. A proposal was submitted to the Parks Department asking to allow unlicensed off-road vehicles to drive on the Park's dirt roads. (Licensed vehicles may do so). If approved, this would allow motorcycles, dune buggies, etc. to roar through the park and cause damage to plants and animals, and completely destroy the desert solitude.

An Action Alert was sent to me just before a scheduled trip. Just before beginning the hike, I asked the participants to write letters opposing this action. I received twenty responses which I mailed to the Parks Department. A month later news came that the proposal was rejected. Thank you participants!

Several people have volunteered for my Conservation Hot Line, described in the last sage. They are: Keats Hayden, Karen Leonard, Ron Jones, Terry and Bruce Turner. If you know of any urgent conservation calls for help, you may contact them directly. Addresses and phone numbers are in Schedule. My thanks to them for volunteering!

Because of the defeat in the election, it is more important that we support the environmental organizations. The defeat has been attributed to voter confusion, and lack of understanding. Money is needed to get the message across, and to continue to challenge anti-environmental actions in courts.

While all of the environmental organizations are deserving, don't forget our own: Sierra Club Legal Defense Fund. Mono Lake Committee also deserves our support.

Another conservation/preservation project that is worthwhile is the Kelso Depot Fund. Located near Providence and Mitchell Mountains is the impressive old railroad station.

Be as generous as you can afford, and don't hesitate to donate smaller amounts than suggested. Every amount helps. Think also how much you appreciate the wonderful places that our forbearers had the vision to save for us.
Maris Valkass

LATE NEWS FLASH!

January 17th Maris Valkass was appointed Chairman of the Angeles Chapter Desert Sub-Committee. Maris will be asking and let's give him our support, in his Conservation Committee activities.
 
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