John Laird, California Secretary of Resources lauds Farr and Salazar at Pinnacles National Park Ceremony. Photo by Rita Dalessio.

Thanks to the hard work of Congressman Sam Farr, in January Pinnacles National Monument was upgraded to National Park status by President Obama. Officials on Monday, February 11, celebrating America's 59th National Park included Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar, Congressman Farr and California Secretary of Resources John Laird. Nearly 400 people including many Chapter members and National Sierra Club Parks Committee member Vicky Hoover attended this momentous occasion. Some lucky individuals were able to spot the juvenile condors recently released near the Visitor Center. Pinnacles has been a popular venue for the endangered California condor recovery project.

Sierra Club National Park Committee member Vicky Hoover with Chapter Conservation Chair Rita Dalessio at the unveiling of the new sign at Pinnacles National Park. Photo by Mary Gale.

Pinnacles National Park is a 27,000-acre expanse of volcanic rock and chaparral in Central California that spans San Benito and Monterey counties and draws nearly 350,000 visitors a year. It is hoped that in addition to the permanent protection of natural resources, the new status will encourage more attendance and provide stimulus to the State and local economies surrounding the King City, Soledad and Hollister entrances.

Future generations thanking Congressman Sam Farr.
Photo by Jane Haines.

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