Salton Sea

In his March 10 letter, Martin Burton characterizes the Salton Sea as a contaminated sinkhole not worthy of the $300-million reclamation project proposed by the late Sonny Bono.

Should Burton visit the area he would find that, even in its present condition, the Salton Sea is a large inland sea of great natural beauty, one that has attracted Palm Springs notables and numerous residents and visitors who camp, hike and bird-watch.

Bono had a vision for the Salton Sea that would turn the area into a desert paradise for people and wildlife. Geological evidence surrounding the sea indicates that it was once part of the Gulf of California; Bono’s bill would enable a process for restoring this great natural wonder, and is worthy of support for the sake of the environment and for the future of California.

PAUL LIGHTHILL

Palm Springs