Builders’ Effects

* Re “Wide Swath of Southland Called Vital to Bird, Shrimp” (Oct. 18): Laer Pearce, a representative of land developers, characterizes the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service decision to preserve 500,000 acres in Southern California as “terribly flawed.” He then goes on to say, “This could change the face of California.”

Wrong, Mr. Pearce. This action will help preserve the face of California as it is. Instead, it is the actions of developers like the members of Pearce’s group who will change the face of California. And their intentions represent mutilation, not cosmetic improvements.

ALEX MINTZER

Orange County Group, Sierra Club

Orange