Description
The Smith papers, dating from the late 1950s to the early 1970s, include correspondence, government documents, meeting minutes,
newspaper clippings, newsletters, pamphlets, fliers and ephemera. All relate to such local environmental issues as nuclear
power plant construction and coastal access.
Background
Environmental activist and former biology teacher Ernestine Smith was involved in several
Sonoma
County, California, environmental organizations, including Citizens Organized to Acquire Access to State Tidelands (COAAST), California
Coastal Alliance, Committee to Preserve Bodega Head and Northern California Association to Preserve Bodega Head. Papers cover
key issues, such as coastal conservation and coastal access. Outcomes of the work of Ernie Smith and others in the
Sonoma
County environmental movement include the 1972 Coastal Conservation Act, the formation of the California Coastal Commission, the
end to plans for a nuclear power plant at Bodega Head, and public access to Sea Ranch.
Restrictions
The library can only claim physical ownership of the collection. Users are responsible for satisfying any claimants of literary
property.
Availability
Collection is open for research by appointment.