As avid users of the public lands in the Berryessa Snow Mountain region, the Lake County Horse Council would like to thank US House of Representatives members Mike Thompson, John Garamendi, Jared Huffman, Anna Eshoo and Ami Bera, and US Sen. Barbara Boxer for supporting and introducing legislation to permanently protect the Berryessa Snow Mountain region.

Approximately half of California’s 700,000 horses are used for recreational purposes, with $1.9 billion of the total California equine industry coming from recreational riders.

A National Conservation Area will ensure that these beautiful public lands and trails are preserved, not only for us, but for future generations.

The number of horseback riders and other recreational trail users in this region is growing. Therefore, it is imperative that everyone who reaches out to appreciate these public lands, finds a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience.

A National Conservation Area will give us the opportunity to craft a management plan. This plan can be tailored to site specific needs in our region.

Better managed recreational opportunities, and the addition of conservation sensitive multi-use trails, will benefit people currently recreating in this region, and encourage more people to visit.

Virginia Vovchuk is president of the Lake County Horse Council, based in Kelseyville, Calif. Visit the group online at www.lakecountyhorsecouncil.com .