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BOXER INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO BEGIN DESIGNATION OF WESTERN STATES TRAIL AS A NATIONAL HISTORIC AND SCENIC TRAIL

AUBURN, Calif. - U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) introduced on April 24 the Western States National Trail Study Act, legislation to authorize a study for the designation of the Western States National Trail as a National Historic and Scenic Trail.

The bill, co-sponsored by Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), authorizes the study for a route that runs approximately 100 miles from Squaw Valley to Auburn, Calif. The study is the first step in the process of determining whether the Western States Trail fits the specific historic, ecological, and scenic requirements of the designation.

"The Western States Trail is a nationally significant resource that highlights California's natural heritage," Boxer said. "I am proud to introduce this bill to begin the process of recognizing this historic and scenic trail and appreciating its recreational values. This legislation will help ensure that one of the most beautiful areas of California can be enjoyed by runners, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts for generations to come."

"The Western States Trail is an integral part of California's history," Feinstein said. "The 100-mile trail runs from Lake Tahoe to Auburn, complete with tree-lined summits, creeks and rivers, and sweeping vistas of the majestic Sierras.

"Today, the trail attracts hikers, runners and equestrian enthusiasts from around the world, eager to tackle the challenge of the Trail's rugged course. I believe that the Western States Trail is a fitting candidate to be designated a National Historic and Scenic Trail."

The legislation to authorize the study caps a period of more than 20 years in which representatives from the Western States 100-mile Endurance Run, the Western States Trail ride, known as the Tevis Cup, and the Western States Trail Foundation have worked with members of the California's congressional delegation to seek National Historic and Scenic Trail status for the trail.

"On behalf of all of those who have sought support from our elected leaders on this issue, I would like to thank Sens. Boxer and Feinstein and their respective staffs for making this day possible," said Tony Rossmann, former president of the Western States Endurance 100-mile Run and counselor to the group. "It's been a long process, but one that has certainly been worthwhile. The Western States Trail is one of the West's most treasured recreational resources. This news brings us one step closer to ensuring that it remains a recreational resource for all people for perpetuity."

Added Tim Twietmeyer, a five-time champion of the Western States 100-mile Endurance Run and current board president: "We can't thank Sens. Boxer and Feinstein enough for their work. I know as a father of three, I've always hoped that I could tell my children that the Western States Trail would be available to their children as a National Historic and Scenic Trail. We are moving much closer to that day now with this welcome news."

Since 1955 and 1974 respectively, the Tevis Cup, and the Western States 100-mile Endurance Run, have both been conducted along the Western States Trail route. The Western States Trail has retained its 19th-century integrity and remained unaffected by roads or railroads.

The Western States National Study Act enjoys broad, local support from the Placer and El Dorado County Boards of Supervisors as well as the Auburn, Calif., City Council.

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