Beginning in 2002, Senator Barbara Boxer (D) and Representatives Mike Thompson (D-1) and Hilda Solis (D-32) introduced legislation to make significant designations of Wilderness areas and Wild & Scenic Rivers or tributaries throughout California. During the 108th Congress the bills were significantly scaled back since their original introduction in 2002.

2005
In the 109th Congress the last session's versions were reintroduced, with subtle changes relating to snow sensors and stream guages. Senator Boxer and Rep. Thompson have reintroduced bills in the 109th Congress, with no legislation yet from Rep. Solis. While the bills are not expected to move during 2005, the measures are of special interest to ACWA members.

For the 109th Congress, the measures are:

• S 128 (Boxer)
• HR 233 (Thompson)

The bills S 128 and HR 233 are roughly identical, and designate the Black Butte River and segments of two tributaries in Mendocino County as Wild and/or Scenic under the federal program. No ACWA members have expressed opposition to the specific designations. However, ACWA has commented on the bills' language on snow sensors and stream guages, and a comparison of the language is available.

In 2002, ACWA regions conducted a thorough review of the potential impacts of the original, larger measure by Senator Boxer. While that bill has not been reintroduced, the ACWA document is available.

To view these bills, visit http://thomas.loc.gov.