[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 1]
[Senate]
[Pages 535-536]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




            100TH ANNIVERSARY OF PINNACLES NATIONAL MONUMENT

 Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I take this opportunity to 
recognize the 100th anniversary of Pinnacles National Monument, located 
in San Benito County, CA.
  On January 16, 1908, President Theodore Roosevelt proclaimed 2,080 
acres of the Pinnacles National Forest Reserve as Pinnacles National 
Monument. This year, we celebrate its centennial anniversary. Part of 
an extinct volcano, the spectacular geology of Pinnacles National 
Monument has fascinated visitors for decades. A variety of flora and 
fauna flourishes in this unusual landscape, including an exquisite 
chaparral ecosystem and nearly 400 species of bees, the highest known 
bee-diversity of any place on Earth.
  Situated near the San Andreas Rift Zone with the Central Coast to the 
west and Gabilan Mountain Range to the east, Pinnacles National 
Monument now occupies over 26,000 acres 14,000 acres of which are 
congressionally designated wilderness. With surrounding lands tended by 
farmers whose ancestors homesteaded the region and cowboys who watch 
over the cattle that graze on the expansive plains, Pinnacles National 
Monument offers a sublime glimpse into California's past.
  Pinnacles is home to 20 endemic species holding special Federal or 
state status and is also the ancestral home range of the California 
condor. Pinnacles is the only National Park site that releases and 
maintains this extremely endangered bird species, and is

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critical to the overall condor recovery effort. Pinnacles is also 
located within the Pacific Flyway migratory route and contains the 
highest concentration of nesting prairie falcons of any national park 
in the country.
  Only 100 miles from the urban centers of San Francisco and San Jose, 
Pinnacles National Monument remains a haven of solitude for nature 
enthusiasts and offers a stunning reflection of California's rural 
history and heritage. For 100 years, Pinnacles National Monument has 
served as a recreational escape for hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and 
those seeking a glimpse of California's rich history. It is a powerful 
reminder of the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation 
efforts.
  I commend the National Park Service staff and volunteers for 
maintaining the natural beauty and historical significance of Pinnacles 
National Monument. I look forward to future generations having the 
opportunity to study and enjoy this unique piece of our State and 
national history for another 100 years.

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