At one of the final White House ceremonies in President Joe Biden’s term, the president highlighted the dedication of the Chuckwalla and Sáttítla National Monuments as part of his administration’s broader environmental agenda. He underscored the significance of protecting culturally and ecologically valuable land in California, emphasizing its importance for biodiversity, climate resilience, and honoring Native tribes’ ancestral connections. The President credited community leaders, tribal nations, and environmental advocates for their pivotal roles in these efforts.
He outlined the monuments’ contributions to the 30×30 initiative, aiming to conserve 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. Biden spoke passionately about the beauty and cultural richness of the protected areas, such as the wildlife habitats and sacred tribal sites at Chuckwalla and the volcanic aquifers and ceremonial lands at Sáttítla. He also emphasized the dual benefits of conservation and clean energy, noting adjacent solar projects near Chuckwalla.
Biden framed these actions as essential to preserving the nation’s heritage for future generations while strengthening local economies through tourism and recreation. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to combating climate change, protecting public lands, and fostering unity through shared environmental stewardship.
With a mere three weeks left in office, Biden added protections to over 840,000 acres of California’s culturally and environmentally significant landscapes. These designations honor the stewardship of Native tribes and result from decades of advocacy by community leaders, businesses, and environmental organizations.
Chuckwalla National Monument
Located in eastern Riverside County near Joshua Tree National Park, the Chuckwalla National Monument spans biodiverse desert lands, wildlife habitats, and migration corridors. It also safeguards sacred sites central to the Iviatim, Nüwü, Pipa Aha Macav, Kwatsáan, and Maara’yam peoples. These tribes have long regarded the area as spiritually and culturally significant, and the monument’s designation ensures the preservation of these connections.
The monument is home to a variety of species, including desert tortoises, bighorn sheep, and a range of migratory birds. Its diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to sandy washes, offer recreational opportunities such as hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing. Additionally, the Chuckwalla area includes parts of the historic Bradshaw Trail, offering visitors a glimpse into California’s gold rush-era history.
Evan Trubee, a Palm Desert City Councilmember, celebrated the designation, noting, “Protecting public lands here in the Coachella Valley preserves the wildlife and beautiful landscapes that make our desert home unique. It will help ensure outdoor access for local communities and protect the nature that draws visitors to Riverside and Imperial Counties.”
Sáttítla National Monument
In Northern California, the Sáttítla National Monument protects the Medicine Lake Highlands, a site of cultural importance to the Pit River Tribe. Since time immemorial, this area has provided sustenance and spiritual grounding for Native peoples. The region’s volcanic aquifers store snowmelt, providing clean water to downstream communities and ecosystems, including Fall River Springs, the state’s largest spring system.
The area is also rich in biodiversity, featuring old-growth forests and thriving habitats for numerous plant and animal species. Recognizing its ecological and cultural importance, California agencies plan to allocate additional funding for wildfire prevention and resilience efforts. These measures aim to enhance safety for local communities and protect vital ecosystems. The Medicine Lake Highlands, known for its volcanic features, also attracts geologists and outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore its unique formations.
Brandy McDaniels, Sáttítla National Monument Lead for the Pit River Nation, stated, “Following decades of defending our ancestral homelands, the Pit River Nation welcomes the news that our voices and the voices of our ancestors are finally being heard. This designation ensures that these sacred lands will be protected for generations to come.”
Biden’s Conservation Legacy
Since taking office, Biden has launched the most ambitious conservation agenda in U.S. history, spearheaded by the America the Beautiful initiative, which aims to conserve at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. Key achievements include designating 674 million acres of U.S. lands and waters for protection and surpassing a $11 billion annual international climate financing goal. Biden also became the first sitting U.S. president to visit the Amazon Rainforest, where he declared International Conservation Day.
The establishment of the Chuckwalla National Monument in Southern California marks a capstone achievement of his administration. This designation creates the Moab to Mojave Conservation Corridor, the largest protected land corridor in the contiguous United States, covering nearly 18 million acres over 600 miles. Spanning landscapes from Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante in Utah to the deserts of California, the corridor safeguards critical wildlife habitats, cultural heritage sites, and spiritual landscapes that have been significant to Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples for millennia.
Biden’s conservation efforts not only set a record for the most lands and waters protected by any administration but also establish a legacy of environmental stewardship and cultural preservation.
Boost to California’s 30×30 Initiative
The new monuments contribute more than half a million acres to California’s 30×30 initiative, which aims to conserve 30% of the state’s lands and coastal waters by 2030. This brings the state’s total conserved lands to 25.8%, or 26.1 million acres. The announcement also follows President Biden’s recent action to protect the Pacific and Atlantic coasts from expanded offshore drilling.
California’s 30×30 initiative is part of a global effort to address biodiversity loss and climate change by preserving ecosystems. These newly protected lands play a critical role in maintaining wildlife habitats, carbon sequestration, and water resources, furthering the state’s leadership in environmental conservation.
Economic and Community Benefits
National monuments drive significant economic benefits through tourism and recreation. Studies show conservation of public lands spurs local business growth and job creation. For example, the California Desert region saw a 10% increase in businesses and an 8.5% rise in jobs near protected areas over 25 years.
In 2021, Joshua Tree National Park welcomed over 3 million visitors, contributing $121.9 million to local economies and supporting over 1,500 jobs. Similarly, protected areas like Chuckwalla and Sáttítla create opportunities for businesses in lodging, retail, and outdoor recreation. A 2014 report estimated recreation on BLM-managed lands within 50 miles of recreation sites in California generated $305.2 million (adjusted for inflation) in direct spending, supporting local services such as fire protection, libraries, and recreational programs.
Comparably, in 2021, Death Valley National Park recorded 1,146,551 visitors, which was about two-thirds of its pre-COVID visitation of 1.7 million. This decrease in visitation was attributed to the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges, visitor spending in 2021 amounted to $104 million, significantly contributing to the local economy. The park’s visitation numbers have varied over the years, with a peak of 1,740,945 visitors in 2019. For context, in 2023, Death Valley National Park recorded approximately 1.1 million visitors despite a two-month closure due to flood damage from the remnants of Hurricane Hilary, which impacted visitation numbers.
Preserving Heritage and Nature
These new monuments not only protect California’s cultural and ecological treasures but also ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. Chuckwalla and Sáttítla’s designations mark a significant step in balancing conservation, community, and economic development in the Golden State. By preserving these landscapes, the federal government recognizes their importance not just for local communities but for the entire nation.
By honoring the leadership of Native tribes and recognizing the value of these landscapes, President Biden’s actions demonstrate a commitment to preserving the unique heritage and natural beauty of California. These efforts align with broader national goals to combat climate change, safeguard biodiversity, and promote environmental justice for all communities.
Proposed Amargosa Basin National Monument
These new monuments hold some insight into what can be expected for residents of Tecopa and the wider Amargosa Basin.
The Amargosa Basin, known as the “Crown Jewel of the Mojave Desert,” is a unique and vital ecosystem that could also receive the national monument designation. Spanning the Mojave National Preserve and Death Valley National Park, this region is a vibrant crossroads of ecological, geological, cultural, and historical significance.
A Vital Wildlife Corridor and Endangered Ecosystem
The Amargosa River, a “hide-and-seek” waterway that flows both above and below ground, sustains desert spring ecosystems and serves as a critical wildlife corridor. These oases support rare and endemic species, including the Amargosa vole, native pupfish, and threatened bird populations. The basin’s rich biodiversity also encompasses endemic plants and larger species like bighorn sheep.
Cultural and Historical Riches
The region is steeped in Native American history, with sacred sites like the Salt Song Trail and remnants of the Old Spanish Trail. European-American history includes visits by figures like Kit Carson and Brigham Young. The area also boasts paleontological treasures, such as Ice Age mammoth fossils, and significant mining and railroad history tied to towns like Tecopa.
Economic and Educational Benefits
A national monument designation would bring economic sustainability to local communities by increasing tourism. Historical precedents, such as the economic impact of nearby Death Valley and Joshua Tree National Parks, suggest that the designation could generate significant revenue and jobs. It would also provide funding for visitor infrastructure, including interpretive signage and educational programs, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region.
A Call for Holistic Management
Currently, much of the Amargosa Basin enjoys partial protection under designations like National Conservation Lands and the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. However, advocates argue that a national monument designation would unify and enhance these protections, ensuring a cohesive management plan. This would balance conservation efforts with the needs of local residents, who value the region’s beauty and depend on its resources.
A Legacy of Protection
Amargosa Conservancy has long championed the region’s protection, successfully advocating for the designation of portions of the Amargosa River as Wild and Scenic in 2009. Expanding protections to encompass the entire basin would preserve its diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and natural resources for future generations.
With its unparalleled combination of ecological, cultural, and historical assets, Friends of the Amargosa Basin argue the Basin is a landscape worthy of national monument status. This designation would honor the region’s legacy while providing a sustainable future for its people, wildlife, and visitors.
The Logistics of National Monument Designation
Legal Framework: Authority and Process
The Antiquities Act of 1906 serves as the bedrock of national monument designations. This historic law grants the President unilateral authority to protect areas deemed of significant historical, cultural, or scientific interest. Over 140 sites have been preserved under this act, showcasing its enduring importance.
Alternatively, Congress can designate national monuments through legislation. While often more time-consuming, this pathway fosters bipartisan collaboration and can lead to broader support for a site’s protection. Both methods ensure flexibility in responding to pressing preservation needs.
Identifying Areas of Value
Before an area can achieve monument status, it must demonstrate exceptional natural, cultural, or historic significance. Advocacy groups, tribal nations, scientists, and local communities often champion these proposals, backing their claims with environmental assessments and detailed research. These efforts highlight the unique attributes that make the area worthy of preservation.
Engaging Stakeholders
Designating a national monument is rarely a unilateral decision. Federal agencies, Indigenous tribes, environmental organizations, local businesses, and residents are invited to provide input. Public hearings and comment periods serve as critical forums to address concerns, refine boundaries, and craft management plans that balance conservation with community needs.
Management and Oversight
Once designated, responsibility for managing a national monument falls to federal agencies such as the National Park Service (NPS), Bureau of Land Management (BLM), or U.S. Forest Service. These agencies develop comprehensive management plans addressing land use, public access, and long-term conservation goals. Input from local stakeholders is often incorporated to ensure sustainable stewardship.
Outcomes of National Monument Designation
Environmental Protection
National monuments play a pivotal role in safeguarding ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and natural resources. Monument designation often limits activities like mining, drilling, and urban development, preserving landscapes for future generations while combating climate change.
Cultural and Historical Preservation
From Indigenous sacred sites to historic battlegrounds, many national monuments protect places of profound cultural and historical importance. These designations honor the stories and traditions of the past, fostering opportunities for education and cultural reconciliation.
Economic Boost
The economic ripple effects of a new national monument can be profound. Increased tourism generates demand for hotels, restaurants, and outdoor recreation services, creating jobs and boosting local economies. For example, a 2013 National Park Service report revealed that monuments like Death Valley and Joshua Tree contributed $165 million to regional economies.
Recreation and Education
National monuments enrich lives by expanding access to outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. They also serve as hubs for learning, offering visitors interpretive signage, guided tours, and visitor centers that delve into the area’s unique attributes.
Addressing Local Concerns
Despite the benefits, some communities express concerns about restricted access to traditional land uses like grazing or logging. Collaborative management approaches—such as allowing certain activities under specific guidelines—help address these concerns while ensuring the monument’s integrity.
Marketing and Public Awareness
Federal and Local Promotion
Federal agencies play a leading role in promoting newly designated monuments through official websites, press releases, and visitor resources. Partnerships with tourism boards and conservation organizations amplify these efforts, ensuring the monument gains visibility on a national and international stage.
Community Engagement
Local businesses and residents often become the monument’s most passionate advocates. From organizing grand openings and cultural festivals to offering guided tours, these grassroots efforts help establish the monument as a cherished destination.
Media and Storytelling
National monuments frequently capture the public imagination through documentaries, travel articles, and books. Social media campaigns, virtual tours, and interactive maps make these treasures accessible to a global audience, further elevating their profile.
Eco-Tourism and Sustainability
In an era of growing environmental awareness, eco-tourism is a key marketing focus. National monuments emphasize sustainable practices, attracting visitors who prioritize conservation and education over traditional tourism.
Conclusion
While it might be unlikely for the incoming Trump administration to approve Amargosa Basin as a national monument, establishing a national monument is a long term process that amounts to much more than scenic landscapes or archaeological treasures. They are living testaments to America’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and scientific marvels. Behind every national monument lies a fascinating tale of advocacy, lawmaking, and community collaboration. While the designation process often sparks debate, its outcomes—both tangible and intangible—resonate across generations.
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