LETTER TO THE EDITOR

San Francisco Chronicle
March 21, 2001

Preserving Land

Editor:

We were pleased to see the editorial, "Striking a Natural Bargain," (March 12) highlight the more than165,000 acres of wild lands at risk due to the rising debts of the utilities. However, the position of the conservation community must be clarified.

Conservation organizations representing more than 620,000 Californians urge Gov. Davis to acquire "as much of the utility lands as possible in fee title." Once acquired, these lands should undergo an open disposition process to determine which would be best preserved under public ownership, or under private ownership (or a combination) with development limited by permanent conservation easements.

Temporary easements such as those suggested for the Southern California Edison lands are insufficient -- once the easements end, the lands are once more at risk. A 99-year easement costs as much as a permanent easement. The people of California deserve the best value for their tax dollars, and a permanent conservation legacy.

Sincerely,

LAURIE WAYBURN
The Pacific Forest Trust
Santa Rosa