Sierra Nevada conservation leaders bring their ideas and concerns to the California State Legislature

Sacramento, CA —

On Tuesday, May 23 nearly 40 conservation leaders from throughout the Sierra Nevada went to the State Capitol in California to talk about their ideas and concerns for the Sierra Nevada. This “Sierra Day in the Capitol” was co-sponsored by The Sierra Fund and the Sierra Nevada Alliance.

Sierra leaders were briefed on key issues before the legislature by Gary Patton, Executive Director of the Planning and Conservation League, and by Rachel Dinno with the Trust for Public Land. Role playing and training tips were shared by Tom Moore of Sierra Watch and Joan Clayburgh of Sierra Nevada Alliance.

Citizen lobbyists distributed maps of the Conservancy as well as up-to-date information about the proposed Sierra Conservancy budget, the Sierra Cascade Grant Program, and the Governor's proposed augmentations to support state parks, fish and wildlife. A portfolio of sample Sierra Conservation Projects, including maps and beautiful photographs, was distributed to all members of the legislature.

Lobbyists also built support for AB 84 (Leslie/Laird) that would allow the establishment of a Sierra Conservancy license plate. AB 84 is currently before the Senate Transportation Committee, with details on the language of the bill under final negotiation. The bill is expected to be heard in June. Details on the bill will be distributed as soon as they are available.