Deukmejian’s Park Proposals

Doug Shuit’s article (Jan. 20) shows how much we need more parkland, but it doesn’t tell the whole story about Gov. George Deukmejian’s budget request.

The Santa Monica Mountains and adjacent areas provide the last real recreation opportunities for residents of the Los Angeles Basin. While the state park system is the largest recreation provider in state government, the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy has taken the lead in acquiring new land and developing new facilities right at the doorstep of millions of Southern Californians. Counting the governor’s latest proposal, during the Deukmejian Administration more than $19.3 million will have been approved for new land purchases and recreational facility development in the Santa Monica Mountains and adjacent trail systems.

Last year the governor approved almost $6.7 million for the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy to acquire about 950 acres of prime coastal zone recreation land in Malibu. At the Deer Creek Ranch both day-use and camping facilities will be developed for the public by Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times as part of its lease agreement for a children’s cancer camp. At Lower Corral Canyon the conservancy is negotiating for acquisition of 338 acres directly across Pacific Coast Highway from Corral Beach.

This year Deukmejian has proposed a $6.95-million budget for the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy to acquire and develop even more new recreation facilities. This includes two new coastal zone parks proposed by the conservancy and supported by the governor. While it remains to be seen whether the governor will support extension of the conservancy beyond next year, his record to date shows real support for new parks and recreation areas within a few minutes drive of most Los Angeles and Ventura County residents.

JOSEPH T. EDMISTON

Executive Director

Santa Monica

Mountains Conservancy