Carter remembered as iconic
Signed legislation adding Mineral King to Sequoia National Park
Volume 3, Number 39 - Monday, Jan. 6, 2025
Published every Monday and Thursday
Perspective
THERE HAVE BEEN many tributes recently to President Jimmy Carter, who died on Dec. 29, 2024, at the age of 100.
Carter, a Democrat who served just one term as president (1977-1981), perhaps became more beloved after he left office, particularly for his work with Habitat for Humanity.
He is also connected a bit to giant sequoias because he signed legislation in 1978 that added Mineral King to Sequoia National Park.
The story of Mineral King is not my topic today, but you can read more HERE and HERE and HERE. Of note, the road to Mineral King passes through two giant sequoia groves — the Atwell and Redwood Creek groves (I understand that some consider Redwood Creek as part of Atwell Grove.)
The Mineral King Preservation Society posted a tribute to Carter on its Facebook page on Dec. 30, as follows:
Today, we pause to honor the life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter, whose actions have left an enduring impact on Mineral King. It was during his presidency that Mineral King was permanently protected as part of Sequoia National Park, thanks to the signing of the National Parks & Recreation Act of 1978 (Public Law 95-625). This monumental decision stopped any potential development within the valley, ensuring its beauty and integrity for generations to come. His vision and commitment to conservation made a lasting difference, not just in the valley, but for all who find peace and inspiration in its timeless landscapes.
The National Parks Conservation Association called Carter an “icon of conservation and public service” in an article you can read HERE.
And an excerpt:
An excerpt from In his 1988 memoir, “An Outdoor Journal,” former President of the United States Jimmy Carter wrote, “It is good to realize that if love and peace can prevail on earth, and if we can teach our children to honor nature’s gifts, the joys and beauties of the outdoors will be here forever.”
President Carter passed away yesterday, Dec. 29, at the age of 100. Our country has lost a conservation legend, one of the greatest presidents national park advocates have ever known. His dedication to public service and protection of our natural environment was matched by few of his predecessors or peers.
The NPS reported HERE, that the former president will be laid to rest on Thursday, Jan. 9, at the Carter Home and Garden, part of Jimmy Carter National Historical Park. Federal offices will be closed that day for a federal holiday in observance of President Carter’s death.
Wildfire, water & weather update
Expect sunny and dry weather throughout the Sierra Nevada for at least the next several days. Here’s what the California Department of Water Resources said on Jan. 2 when it reported on the most recent snow survey (HERE):
After a warm, dry fall, recent storms provide boost to snowpack but return of dry conditions looms.
The Porterville Recorder reported on Jan. 3 that “the snowpack in the Southern Sierra is 75% of average for Jan. 2 and 27% of average for April 1. Read more HERE.
We need more snow.
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