Tuleyome's Policy Corner - Senators Padilla and Feinstein Introduce the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument Expansion Act

Sandy Schubert • April 27, 2022

Wildflowers on Molok Luyuk

On April 13, Senators Alex Padilla and Diane Feinstein introduced the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument Expansion Act. Congressmen John Garamendi and Mike Thomspon lead the legislation in the House with HR 6366.


The bill would expand Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument by adding 3,925 acres of adjacent BLM land in Lake County. The legislation also supports historical co-management with federally recognized tribes and would change the name from "Walker Ridge" to Molok Luyuk - Patwing for "Condor Ridge", a name the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation provided. This area is home to great biodiversity with over 30 species of rare plants, blue oak woodlands, rugged rock outcrops, wildflower meadows and extensive stands of McNab cypress. These factors make the ridge an important corridor for many species including deer, mountain lions, and black bear. It is culturally significant to numerous Native American Tribes.


"California has some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world - and it is our duty to preserve these pristine outdoor spaces and rare natural habitats to combat the climate crisis and benefit future generations," said Senator Alex Padilla. "I am proud to be introducing this legislation to not only expand the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, but to usher in a new era of cooperative stewardship between our federal land management agencies and local tribes. For over 11,000 years, dozens of tribes have called "Molok Luyuk" home, and with the enactment of our bill, we can ensure that their unique tribal knowledge, history, and cultural practices will permanently be part of the National Monument."


"This region of California is rich with Native American cultural landmarks and diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Since 2015, I've worked to protect and expand the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, securing more than 330,000 acres for federal protection. I'm proud to join Senator Padilla to build on the work started eight years ago to add another 4,000 acres to the monument," Senator Feinstein said.


Tuleyome and our partners thank Senators Padilla and Feinstein for their support of Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument.


-Sandra Schubert; sschubert@tuleyome.org


Executive Director


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