On December 11, 1999, President Clinton signed the Otay Mountain Wilderness Act to preserve 18,500 acres of the Otay Mountain region in San Diego County as wilderness area. Senator Feinstein had introduced the legislation to preserve this precious resource, what many call "one of California's most exceptional wild places" earlier this year.

The bill was similar to legislation drafted by Representative Brian Bilbray (R-San Diego), which was approved by the House of Representatives in midApril on a voice vote with broad, bi-partisan support.

Otay Mountain is located near the U.S.-Mexico border in eastern San Diego County.  The mountain represents a unique ecosystem, home to twenty sensitive plant and animal species, including the endangered quino checkerspot butterfly, the only known stand of Tecate cypress, as well as the only known population of the Mexican flannel bush.;

It was recommended by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management for wilderness designation more than 10 years ago.  San Diego County has also identified Otay Mountain as a core reserve in the habitat conservation plan it is currently developing.

This legislation would protect Otay Mountain from commercial activity, motorized access and infrastructure development. Because of its proximity to the international border with Mexico, however, the Border Patrol will be allow to continue work in the new wilderness so long as its does not damage the environment. Likewise, firefighting activities will be permitted in Otay Mountain provided the firefighters do no damage to the environment.

"I am delighted that President Clinton has signed this important legislation designating an 18,500 acre portion of the Otay Mountain region in Southern California as protected wilderness," Senator Feinstein said.

"Otay Mountain is scenic, beautiful, and well worth preserving as wilderness for generations to come.   This legislation ensures that the people of California, and indeed all Americans, will be able to experience and enjoy Otay Mountain in all its unique splendor and beauty."