Mr. Speaker. I rise in support of that provision in the bill calling for the creation of the Emigrant Wilderness in northern California. I had the honor to represent this portion of the Golden State for many years and the inclusion of this wilderness area in our wilderness system will bring many benefits to the State of California and to the people throughout the Western States. Throughout my 15 years of service as a Congressman in northern California. I have had the opportunity to work with the people of this area and with those who frequent the area for recreational purposes. They are unanimous in their support for the inclusion of this area in our national wilderness areas system. The largest part of the proposed wilderness area has long been known to Californians as the Emigrant Basin Primitive Area. This region was first officially recognized for its primeval beauty In 1931. when the Chief of the Forest Service set aside over 98.000 acres for preservation in its natural state. Through continual careful management and selective use of resources. its ruggedness and beauty as well as Its primitive quality have been preserved. The name "Emigrant" is deeply steeped In local history. The basin derives its name from nearby Emigrant Pass. that famous passage used by many pioneer groups to cross the Sierra Nevada Mountains into this region of eastern California. The proposed Emigrant Wilderness Area is a region of rugged snowcapped peaks. glistening glacial lakes. lush mountain meadows. and sparse patches of conifer forest in the Stanishaus National Forest. It lies in Tuolumne County along the northern border of Yosemite National Park. The area is used primarily for outdoor recreation. being visited from late spring to early fall by hikers. campers. fishermen. and hunters.
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Emigrant