To the editor: That there are still places like Sutter Buttes inaccessible to almost all visitors should bring us to our knees in gratitude. Yes, I am progressive, but I draw a very strong line against the view that humans should have unlimited freedom to enter any natural space we wish.
A few years ago I saw a family at Multnomah Falls in Oregon, after carrying a huge basket of picnic food, leaving wrappers, cans and other trash in this pristine place. Numerous articles have been published showing the harmful effects of such behavior, so people should be aware of the damage caused by a thoughtless and ignorant public.
Since by nature we are not only creators of beauty, we also destroy it, possibly to a much greater degree.
I recently returned from the Netherlands, a small country packed with people. However, even when flying over Amsterdam International Airport, you can see green spaces dotted with small forests. The cities and towns are separated by such beautiful areas, creating an air of tranquility.
Why can't we do the same in the United States, a country with abundant natural beauty? Furthermore, why do we believe we should have unimpeded access to places that provide habitat for wildlife?
The Sutter Buttes should not fall victim to the idea that the public should have unlimited access to incredibly beautiful areas.
Anneke Mendiola, Santa Ana
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To the editor: As a lawyer, I read your article on Sutter Buttes with considerable interest.
As I read and noted how local landowners did not want to sell their property for a public access road, and how that was supported by the local board of supervisors, I waited to read about the state and their attempt to acquire the property. necessary lands through the constitutional application of eminent domain.
I didn't see a word dedicated to that topic. I would have liked to know if the state of California ever brought this to the forefront.
Maury Mills, Ventura
