A new proposal in Congress threatens to open the door for the sale or transfer of public lands across the Eastern Sierra—including parts of Inyo and Mono counties. These lands, which belong to all Americans, are at risk of being handed over to private interests for development, extraction, or other commercial uses.
This isn’t just a bureaucratic issue—it’s a direct threat to the open spaces we hike, camp, fish, and explore. It’s a danger to wildlife habitat, cultural landscapes, and the local economies that depend on outdoor recreation.
What’s Happening?
Buried in proposed federal legislation are measures that would allow certain public lands to be declared “excess” and sold off. In many cases, these lands include areas currently managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service, including places locals and visitors use every day.
Why It Matters
- Loss of Access: Once sold, these lands could be fenced off or developed, cutting off access to trails, climbing areas, and campgrounds.
- Environmental Damage: Private use often means increased risk of pollution, habitat loss, and resource extraction.
- Cultural Erasure: Many of these areas hold deep significance for Indigenous communities, especially the Paiute, Shoshone, and Timbisha peoples.
- Economic Impact: Our tourism economy thrives on public lands. Selling them off puts small businesses, guides, outfitters, and communities at risk.
What You Can Do
1. Speak Up
Call or email your elected representatives. Tell them you oppose any legislation that allows public land sell-offs in California.
2. Stay Informed
Follow organizations like Friends of the Inyo, Wilderness Society for updates and calls to action.
3. Show Up
Attend public meetings and hearings—your presence matters. Public pressure works.
4. Share the Word
Post about this on social media. Talk to friends. The more people know, the louder our voice.
Script: Kevin Kiley
My name is [Your Name], a constituent from Inyo or Mono County in the 3rd Congressional District.
I am a [fill in the blank… climber, hiker, angler, business owner]. This message expresses strong opposition [make this your own] to the sale of public lands. These lands are an invaluable resource for both our culture and our economy that should be protected and preserved for current and future generations.
I urge you to oppose any legislative efforts that would lead to the sale or privatization of public lands.
Thank you for your time and consideration of this important issue.
[Your Name]
[Zip Code]
[Email Address]
Keep the pressure on. One bill dies another arrises. Let your elected officials know, that you do not support the sell off of public lands.
