Honoring John Burton: A Key Architect of the South Yuba’s Wild & Scenic Future
As we approach January 1, 2026, we mark a profound milestone: 25 years since the South Yuba River’s State Wild & Scenic designation took effect. This designation was not simply handed down; it was earned through decades of advocacy, political will, and grassroots action. Key to that effort was one powerful and often underestimated force: John Burton.
Who Was John Burton and Why He Mattered For The Yuba
John Lowell Burton (1932–2025) was a towering figure in California politics. He served in the State Assembly, the U.S. House of Representatives, and the California State Senate. From 1998 to 2004, he was President pro tempore of the California State Senate, giving him extraordinary influence over legislative priorities and negotiations.
Long before his recent death in September 2025, Burton was celebrated as a fierce advocate for social justice, environmental protections, and giving voice to communities that too often go unheard.
But for SYRCL and the South Yuba, his legacy is especially meaningful because of his role in passing SB 496 in 1999, the bill that formally extended the State Wild & Scenic designation to 39 miles of the South Fork of the Yuba River.
SB 496, authored by Senator Byron Sher, faced stiff opposition. As recounted by American Rivers, Burton’s support as Senate Pro Tem was critical to shepherding it through legislative hurdles and overcoming GOP resistance from key voices like Senator Tim Leslie and Assemblyman Sam Aanestad. Without Burton’s backing, many observers believe SB 496 might not have passed.
SB 496 was passed in 1999; the legislation was signed by Governor Gray Davis on October 10, 1999. A companion measure to SB 496, AB 1593 (Villaraigosa), subsequently delayed its designation until January 1, 2001.
Turning Momentum Into Protection
Burton’s influence was not symbolic. As Senate leadership, he held real leverage over which bills emerged from committee, how amendments were negotiated, and how much floor time legislation received. When SYRCL and other advocates for the South Yuba River needed allies to combat proposed dams, Burton’s name was among the few that truly moved votes.
Perhaps even more importantly, Burton’s willingness to align with environmental causes during a career known for a bold political style helped bridge divides. He was not afraid to be controversial, yet he knew how to make deals that mattered.
His influence extended beyond the passage of SB 496. Burton’s political presence and stature helped legitimize SYRCL’s campaign, signaling to contemporaries that the river protection movement was not just local idealism, but a cause worthy of serious legislative attention.
25 Years On: What the Wild & Scenic Designation Has Achieved and Why We Need to Keep Fighting
Since the state designation took effect in 2001, the South Yuba has benefited from stronger protections, community recognition, and conservation momentum. But designating a river Wild & Scenic is not the end of the journey, it’s a responsibility.
Over the past quarter-century, SYRCL, in partnership with communities, environmental organizations, local, state, and federal government agencies, scientists, and volunteers, has continued to defend, restore, and steward the Yuba. From habitat restoration to community outreach, from advocacy to river safety and stewardship education, the fight is ongoing.
As we approach the 25th anniversary of California Wild & Scenic designation of the South Yuba River going into effect on January 1, we celebrate not just a date, but a legacy: a legacy in part made possible by John Burton’s commitment and influence. His willingness to stand with river advocates, to exert legislative power for conservation, and to bridge politics with principle deserves our gratitude and remembrance.
Looking Ahead and Asking for Your Support
Honoring the past is essential, but so is preparing for the future. As threats to water quality, infrastructure, and environmental policy intensify, we must stay vigilant.
To that end, we invite you — the river lovers, community members, and stewards of the Yuba — to join us in marking this anniversary with action. Support SYRCL’s ongoing work to restore habitat, monitor threats, advocate when necessary, educate the next generation, inspire audiences through film, mobilize the community, and ensure that the spirit of Wild & Scenic continues to protect this river we cherish.
Because while John Burton helped turn a vision into law, the enduring protection of the South Yuba depends on all of us.
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It’s great to see this tribute to John Burton. He was, indeed, a force of nature.
It is, also, noteworthy that his brother, Phil Burton, was the Congressman responsible for creation of the Point Reyes National Seashore.
These men and Sala Burton (who succeeded her husband in Congress) were remarkable legislators. Their achievements in social justice and the environment continue to make our lives better.