WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey (D-Petaluma) on Thursday, secured $1.5 Million for the Pt. Reyes National Seashore. The U.S. Congress approved Rep. Woolsey's full funding request for Pt. Reyes National Seashore in the Omnibus Spending Bill for FY 03. This money will be used to purchase 77 acres of land currently owned by the Bolinas Municipal Utility District.

“The addition of this valuable parcel will ensure permanent protected habitat for threatened fish populations, and will add to the park's inventory of stream and redwood environments for the enjoyment of all," said Rep. Woolsey. “Protecting the Pt. Reyes National Seashore will provide future generations the opportunity to enjoy this refuge for a unique variety of animals, plants and migratory birds.”

Point Reyes National Seashore contains many unique elements of biological and historical interest. Thirty-seven species of native land mammals and more than a dozen marine mammals are present at the national park. This biological diversity stems from a favorable location in the middle of California and the natural occurrence of many distinct habitats. Nearly 20% of the State's flowering plant species are represented on the peninsula and over 45% of the bird species in North America have been sighted.

“We are extremely grateful for the support that Congressswoman Woolsey provided for getting the funds for this critical purchase,” said Don Neubacher, Superintendent Pt. Reyes National Seashore. “Because the Congresswoman has always made Pt. Reyes Seashore a priority, the park will be able to purchase this precious piece of property.

The parcel that the Park service will purchase is near the town of Bolinas and contains Pine Gulch Creek, a major stream in the park that has steelhead trout and coho salmon populations, classified as "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act, and a spectacular grove of Redwood trees.”

Rep. Woolsey is an outspoken advocate for protecting the natural environment. She has fought for years to improve the Point Reyes National Seashore National Park. In past Congresses she has introduced legislation that would set up a voluntary program for willing landowners to sell their conservation easements while retaining ownership of their land. She also secured funding for the Pacific Coast Learning Center to facilitate research on coastal ecosystems; research and preservation of Point Reyes’ rich cultural history; research on fire ecology; as well as providing educational training materials and programs to the San Francisco Bay Area.

The Omnibus Spending Bill for FY03 is a compilation of the 11 appropriations bills that were not passed in the 107th Congress. The House will vote on the bill and then it will be sent to the President for signature.