Editor,
Our public lands are among our nation’s greatest treasures. From mountains and valleys to rivers, forests and historic sites, these landscapes provide far more than natural beauty — they support local economies, create jobs and sustain communities throughout California.
As my district encompasses all of Yosemite National Park within Mariposa County, I know firsthand how vital public lands are to our region’s identity and economic vitality. Communities surrounding Yosemite National Park depend on safe, accessible, well-maintained lands to support tourism, recreation and small businesses serving millions of visitors each year.
In 2020, Congress addressed decades of deferred maintenance on federal lands by passing the Great American Outdoors Act, creating the National Parks and Public Lands Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF) to fund long-overdue repairs without new taxes.
Since then, nearly $911.2 million has been invested in 34 California projects through the LRF. One example is the rehabilitation of the El Portal Wastewater Treatment Facility and Administrative Camp at Yosemite National Park.
These investments protect natural resources, improve visitor safety and support local economies tied to tourism.
Visitors to California’s parks support hotels, restaurants, retailers, outfitters and small businesses. These projects also create construction, engineering and skilled trade jobs across the state.
Although the original LRF authorization expired last year, Congress is now considering the America the Beautiful Act (S. 1547), which would reauthorize the fund for eight more years and provide $2 billion annually to address maintenance backlogs on federal lands.
This bipartisan effort reflects a shared commitment to conservation, public access and economic sustainability. Continued investment ensures these places remain safe, accessible and beneficial for future generations.
Congress should move forward with the America the Beautiful Act and continue supporting the communities, workers and businesses that rely on healthy and vibrant public lands.
Sincerely,
Rosemarie Smallcombe
Mariposa County Board of Supervisors,
District 1
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