First Name | Patricia |
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Last Name | Hickson |
Email Address | patricia@sierranevadaalliance.org |
Affiliation | Sierra Nevada Alliance |
Subject | Land Use Emission Reduction Target |
Comment | Dear Members of the Board, We are the Sierra Nevada Alliance an organization that unites hundreds of individuals and conservation groups throughout the Sierra Nevada. We’ve been working to protect and restore the natural environment of the Sierra Nevada for future generations while promoting healthy and sustainable communities since 1993. The Alliance remains interested and invested in the land use target for carbon emission reductions, even though this legislation remains largely inapplicable to rural regions, including most of the Sierra. Despite this exclusion we know the emission reduction target set for the State by CARB is likely to have trickle down effects to rural areas. Depending on future decisions tied to carbon sequestration valuation, and future follow-up legislation to SB 375, this target could have especially significant repercussions to the preservation of timberlands, hardwood forests and working landscapes. Like many individuals, organizations and agencies throughout the State we support the redoubling of this target from 5 MMT to 11 to 14 MMT. We know 11 to 14 MMT is a realistically high target based on the analysis of Dr. Reid Ewing and Dr. Arthur Nelson. Setting a higher target for the land use sector will signal that land use sector is a top priority and that regions should aim high and take decisive action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from new development. A higher target must be coupled with a commitment to providing financial resources, technical assistance and other support to help regions, local governments, and transportation agencies achieve the target. A higher target will also signal to the state of California that land use should be a high priority for financial and technical assistance to meet the goals of AB 32. Conversely, a low target will send the signal that business-as-usual development should continue, and that land use is not a high priority for resources and support. The Sierra Nevada, like most parts of the State of California, continues to suffer environmental damage and diminished quality of life related to poor planning decisions. For example, per capita vehicle miles traveled in the Sierra region are some of the highest in the state due to sprawling development patterns. More than 75% of oak woodland habitat in the Sierra is privately owned, and much of that is at risk for development. A higher emission reduction target means a better chance for the Sierra to preserve its open space and working landscapes, and to encourage planning patterns that are consistent with the rural quality of life that makes the Sierra such a desirable place to live and visit. Sincerely, Patricia Hickson, Sierra Nevada Alliance, Program Associate |
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Date and Time Comment Was Submitted | 2008-12-09 11:47:55 |
If you have any questions or comments please contact Clerk of the Board at (916) 322-5594.