Represenative ____________________
(Address)
Dear Representative _______________:
I urge you to co-sponsor and support H.R. 4086, the Rim of the Valley Corridor Preservation Act. Representative Adam Schiff’s legislation will more than double the size of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA), and bring tremendous benefits to ____________________(your community, if applicable, or just use “greater Los Angeles area”.)
The current SMMNRA is a model for cooperation and collaboration between the National Park Service (NPS) and local communities. NPS involvement has greatly enhanced the capacity of local jurisdictions to protect native habitat, plan and expand recreational uses, restore areas affected by wildfires, and provide educational and outreach programs to local youth and families. Additionally, the NPS conducts critical research that helps inform management strategies for the long-term protection and enjoyment of these parks and open spaces.
National parks serve as economic engines for local, gateway communities. The current SMMNRA drew over 900,000 visitors in 2016, generating over $39 million in spending and supporting over 500 jobs outside the park.
H.R. 4086 will expand these benefits to other parts of the region and bring the NPS’ expertise and resources to such areas as the Simi Hills, Santa Susana Mountains, Santa Clarita Valley, Verdugo Mountains, Arroyo Seco and Los Angeles River. Historic and cultural sites in these areas will also receive a boost from the NPS’ interpretive and outreach capabilities.
Finally, H.R. 4086 ensures that the expansion has no impact on private property rights or local land use authorities, and eminent domain expressly prohibited. Only land from willing sellers or donors would be eligible for acquisition by the NPS.
The Rim of the Valley Corridor Preservation Act represents an opportunity to greatly enhance the quality of life for residents in the greater Los Angeles area. I ask that you join other members of our local Congressional delegation as a co-sponsor of the bill, and work to move it through the House committee hearing and mark-up process. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
(Your Name and affiliation if any)