In March 2006, the Trust announced that the
3,748-acre property known as Cedar Hills will forever remain
an unharmed natural island adjacent to the Mono Lake National
Forest Scenic Area.
View of Cedar Hills Property
Seven Bureau of Land Management Wilderness
Study Areas (WSAs) surround the property, making the preservation
of Cedar Hills key to maintaining the uninterrupted wild lands
that envelope Mono Lake and these WSAs. The hilly land supports
a rich assemblage of plants and animals that reflect overlapping
ecological habitats that make up the landscape. This landmark
property will ultimately be transferred to the ownership of
the United States, preserved as public lands for generations
to enjoy.
The Trust stepped in to acquire the Cedar Hills
as part of its work to assure wilderness for future generations.
“The Cedar Hills were so compelling that we stepped
in to work with the landowner, Mel Arthur after learning how
vital the preservation of the property is to the whole region,”
said Reid Haughey, President. “Our work in the area
is otherwise focused on the Wilderness Study Areas in the
Bodie Hills and nearby designated wilderness areas, like the
Carson-Iceberg, Hoover, Ansel Adams and John Muir.”
Funding for this acquisition was provided through the Preserving
Wild California (PWC) program of the Resources Legacy Fund
Foundation.
