One of California’s lesser-known natural gems, the area known as Berryessa Snow Mountain was protected as a national monument by President Barack Obama in July 2015, the culmination of decades of hard work by The Wilderness Society, local communities and leaders throughout the state. Flashback: Berryessa Snow Mountain protected as a national monument Berryessa Snow Mountain was a popular candidate for permanent protection for years, with local businesses, governing bodies, public meeting attendees and others backing the initiative. Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA) and Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA) took up the cause as well. But despite major support, legislative progress was not forthcoming, so. The Wilderness Society and our members asked the White House to take action. Protected by President Obama in July 2015, the new monument stretches from the region around Lake Berryessa across remote sections of Cache Creek north to Snow Mountain. It is renowned locally for its outdoor recreation opportunities; abundant wildlife like tule elk, mountain lions and bald eagles; and habitat ranging from lush oak woodland to clear creeks and fields of wildflowers. Monument designation protects all this and raises the region’s profile as a tourism destination, potentially boosting the local economy by up to $50 million over five years. https://www.google.com/maps/place/Berryessa+Snow+Mountain+National+Monument/@38.8655468,-122.5381665,5944m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m2!3m1!1s0x80847a10a989dddb:0x1c2495f5f1213c99!6m1!1e1