San Gabriel Mountains Forever

San Gabriel Mountains Forever is a broad coalition of nonprofit organizations, community groups, and environmental justice advocates dedicated to protecting and expanding access to the San Gabriel Mountains and its watersheds. Formed in 2013, the coalition works to ensure permanent preservation, improved recreational facilities, and equitable access for the millions of people living in the adjacent Greater Los Angeles area. Its advocacy has been instrumental in shaping federal land management policy and securing significant public investments for the region's natural resources.

Background and formation

The coalition emerged from longstanding community efforts to address the need for expanded open space and nature access in the densely populated Los Angeles Basin. Key precursors included the work of organizations like the The Wilderness Society and local groups advocating for the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, which was established by President Barack Obama under the Antiquities Act in 2014. The founding members recognized that the monument's designation was a critical first step, but that sustained, collaborative advocacy was required to secure the funding and management necessary to realize its full potential for the public. The formation was strategically timed to build on the momentum of the national monument campaign and unite diverse stakeholders under a common vision.

Goals and objectives

The primary goals are to ensure the permanent protection of the ecological and cultural resources within the San Gabriel Mountains and its river corridors, including the San Gabriel River and Rio Hondo. A central objective is to promote environmental equity by improving and creating new recreational facilities, trails, and educational programs, particularly for underserved communities in Los Angeles County and the San Gabriel Valley. The coalition also advocates for robust federal funding for the United States Forest Service, specifically the Angeles National Forest, and supports measures to enhance climate resilience, protect biodiversity, and safeguard water quality for the region. These objectives are framed within the context of providing a critical nature refuge for the health and well-being of urban residents.

Key campaigns and initiatives

A major ongoing campaign focuses on advocating for the passage and full funding of the San Gabriel Mountains Foothills and Rivers Protection Act, federal legislation that would expand the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, designate new wilderness and wild and scenic river segments, and improve recreational infrastructure. The coalition has successfully campaigned for millions of dollars in congressional appropriations through the Land and Water Conservation Fund for land acquisition and park development. Other initiatives include community-led projects to restore local trails, organize volunteer clean-up events along the Los Angeles River, and host educational outings with groups like Outdoor Afro and Latino Outdoors to foster a new generation of environmental stewards.

Organizational structure and partnerships

The coalition operates as a collaborative partnership without a centralized governing body, relying on the coordinated efforts of its member organizations. Core partners include major national conservation groups such as The Wilderness Society and the Sierra Club, as well as regional and local entities like the San Gabriel Mountains Trailbuilders, Nature for All, and the Asian Pacific Policy & Planning Council. It maintains strategic partnerships with public agencies, including the United States Forest Service and the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, and works closely with elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels, including members of the California congressional delegation.

Impact and recognition

The coalition's advocacy has directly contributed to securing over $100 million in federal, state, and local funding for conservation and recreation projects in the San Gabriel Mountains region since its formation. Its work was pivotal in the successful designation of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and continues to shape the implementation of its management plan. The group's model of uniting broad-based community support with strategic policy advocacy has been recognized as a national model for urban conservation and environmental justice. Its efforts have enhanced access and amenities for millions of visitors, protected vital habitats for species like the California condor and San Gabriel Mountains slender salamander, and strengthened the political will for sustained investment in public lands.

Category:Environmental organizations based in California Category:Organizations established in 2013 Category:San Gabriel Mountains