[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 142 (Monday, October 5, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S10108]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                    EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT

 Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I take this opportunity to 
recognize the 75th anniversary of the East Bay Regional Park District, 
EBRPD.
  On November 4, 1934, during the height of the Great Depression, the 
residents of Alameda and Contra Costa Counties voted to form the EBRPD 
by a stunning 71 percent. Voters approved this park project in order to 
provide recreational opportunities and employment during the Great 
Depression. This year, we celebrate its 75th anniversary and marvel at 
the visionary efforts that have made EBRPD the largest regional park 
district in the Nation.
  On June 4, 1936, EBRPD acquired its first parcel of land--2,162 acres 
sold to the district by the East Bay Municipal Utility District. This 
acreage came to host EBRPD's first three parks--Upper Wildcat Canyon, 
now known as Tilden, Temescal, and Roundtop, now known as Sibley. 
Today, EBRPD manages 65 parks on over 98,000 acres, with 1,100 miles of 
trails throughout Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.
  The individual parks that comprise EBRPD vary greatly in size, 
feature, and character. There are parks on the hillsides above the 
cities of Berkeley and Oakland, waterfront parks along the San 
Francisco Bay, and a park that includes a turn-of-the-century farm in 
Fremont. While all parks in the district allow visitors the opportunity 
to enjoy open spaces, some parks also have visitor attractions 
including access to swimming, boating, and camping. Located within the 
urban metropolises of Alameda and Contra Costa Counties, EBRPD remains 
a cherished source of wilderness and recreation for local residents. 
Through wars and unrest, unprecedented population growth, and both 
challenging and positive economic times, EBPRD's mission of preserving 
land for wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation, and nature education has 
stood the test of time.
  For 75 years, the East Bay Regional Park District has offered a 
recreational escape for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts and a glimpse of 
the region's rich history. Its parks also offer a powerful reminder of 
the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation efforts. I 
commend the EBRPD staff and volunteers for maintaining the natural 
beauty and historical significance of this impressive park district. 
With their continued stewardship, future generations will have the 
opportunity to enjoy our State's unique history and natural environment 
for many years to come.

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