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.