California’s third congressional district spans much of the eastern part of the state, including a vast amount of public lands and waters with world-class outdoor recreation—from bouldering in the Buttermilks in Bishop, spring backcountry skiing Dana Couloir along Tioga Pass, kayaking the South Fork of Yuba River, and incredible single track in Downieville. Congressman Kevin Kiley has represented the district in the U.S. House since 2023.

Over the years, the Outdoor Alliance California team has worked with Congressman Kiley and his staff to support shared priorities, including funding and staffing for federal land management agencies, forest and watershed health, and policies that strengthen the outdoor recreation economy in rural and gateway communities.

Last week, Outdoor Alliance California helped host two advocacy events with Congressman Kiley and his staff—one in the Sierra Nevada foothills and one along the Truckee River. These gatherings brought together local elected officials, land managers, business owners, nonprofits, and outdoor enthusiasts to celebrate collective efforts to protect public lands and waters.

In attendance were Outdoor Alliance partners, the Congressman’s staff, and residents of Truckee

The events came shortly after Congress passed a major reconciliation bill with the most harmful land sale provisions removed. Congressman Kiley’s support was part of a broader, bipartisan effort to ensure those provisions were dropped. At the Truckee River event, the Congressman also announced that he would be joining the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, further signaling his commitment to protecting access to public lands.

“Thank you to the Outdoor Alliance California, Town of Truckee, and Nevada County for their collaboration on hosting our office for advocacy events and elevating the importance of outdoor recreation and preserving public lands and waters,” said Congressman Kiley. “I appreciate the continued partnership to ensure public access to these beautiful public landscapes and recreational opportunities that are so vital to the character of our region.”

“Outdoor Alliance California will continue to work closely with Congressman Kiley and his staff to build support for public lands and waters and to advocate for the continued protection of the Yuba River and other watersheds in the district. There is deep appreciation amongst a broad group of community members who either manage, recreate, or live in the community that cares deeply about these landscapes,” said Theresa L. Lorejo-Simsiman, California Stewardship Director for American Whitewater.

Congressman Kiley and Outdoor Alliance California Program Director, Katie Hawkins

“Outdoor Alliance California, Town of Truckee, and Visit Truckee Tahoe are key partners in advocating for year-round outdoor recreation in the region. The town is grateful for the dedicated partners that advance our initiatives of preserving the landscape, bolstering the health and wellness of the community, and increasing equitable access to sustainable outdoor recreation within the region’s vast public lands and waters,” said town council member Dave Polivy, Town of Truckee.

Outdoor Alliance California works across the political spectrum to support public lands and waters, promote climate resilience, and ensure that everyone has access to meaningful outdoor experiences. We’re grateful to work with many California leaders, including Congressman Kiley, to advance recreation and conservation in Congress.

A special thank you Nevada County Consolidated Fire District, Nevada County, Town of Truckee, and Truckee Donner Land Trust for hosting us.

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Trip Report: A week of Public Lands and Waters Advocacy with Congressman Kiley