Legislation to create 2 million acres of new federally protected wilderness areas in nine states has advanced in the U.S. Senate and is expected to receive full Senate approval by week’s end. The bill would confer the highest level of federal protection on parts of California’s Sierra Nevada, lands around Mount
Hood in Oregon, sections of the Jefferson National Forest in Virginia, and portions of Zion National Park in Utah and Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, among other areas. Wilderness status prohibits commercial activity and restricts human access and activities, including the use of snowmobiles and motorized boats. In a rare Sunday session, the Senate cut off debate on further amendments to these latest wilderness designations, clearing the way for passage by the full Senate. The House of Representatives will take up the bill soon after the inauguration of Barack Obama and chances for its passage are considered good. If passed, the bill would represent the largest expansion of wilderness areas in 25 years.
WPG
Mount Hood