Will Senator Harris’ NRA Encroach Monrovia’s Wilderness Preserve?
By Susan Motander
California Senator Kamala Harris has proposed legislation that would create a National Recreation Area (NRA) in the San Gabriel Mountains. Harris’ legislation is a companion act to that of Congresswoman Judy Chu that calls for the same NRA.
According to City Manager Oliver Chi, city staff members have been trying to research the two pieces of legislation to find a map of the proposed NRA. Chi wrote that despite being told by Harris’ staff that no map exists, a map is referred to in the proposed legislation.
To review it, go to the city’s website and search for the City Manager’s Update.
At first glance, there does not seem to be any impact on non-federally owned land. However, it may create an additional layer of oversight over some portions of Monrovia. Since the Secretary of the Interior does not have to prepare a Management Plan for the NRA until three years after the passage of the law, some questions remain.
Chi promises to keep the community informed on the impact of the proposed legislation.