Comment Log Display

March 8, 2013

Chairman Mary Nichols
California Air Resources Board
1001 "I" Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

Dear Chairman Nichols,

Mission Resource Conservation District has been actively involved
in farmland preservation, watershed protection and natural resource
conservation in San Diego County.  We feel it is imperative that
investments of AB 32 revenues be used to support RCD efforts in
these areas throughout the state in creating a long term response
to California's pressing GHG reduction needs.

1) Conserve working lands including farmland, forest and range.
Conserving lands from urban development reduces the total vehicle
miles teraveled, creates lands that serve as sinks for carbon in
plant and soils, and creates strong rural economies that serve as
the backbone for California's economy.

Programs to invest in include:

California Farmland Conservation Program housed in the Department
of Conservation
Williamson Act Subvention Funds
Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program housed in the Department of
Conservation
Resource Conservation Districts for on-the-ground projects.

2) Conserve wildlands, parks and natural areas
Conserving properly managed wildlands creates carbon sinks in
plants and soils while providing for the natural heritage that
makes California unique.

Programs to invest in include:

The Wildlife Conservation Board
Deoartment of Fish and Game easement programs
Resource Conservation Districts for on-the-ground conservation
projects

3) Provide stewardship of California's watersheds

We make a strong recommendation to support the Statewide Watershed
Program and the Resource Conservation District Assistance Program
both housed in the Department of Conservation.

Mission Resource Conservation District hopes that emphasis for AB
32 will have multiple benefits with a commitment to strong rural
economies and the preservation of California's unique natural
resources.

Thank you for your consideration,



Judith Mitchell
District Manager
Mission Resource Conservation District