President Biden Expands Two California National Monuments, Honoring Heritage and Protecting Nature
By LA News Center
President Joe Biden has designated nearly 120,000 acres of significant cultural and environmental land in California as national monuments. This crucial move expands two existing monuments and advances his “America the Beautiful” initiative.
Protecting Cultural and Natural Treasures
Driven by calls from tribal nations and Indigenous community leaders, Biden has expanded the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and created a new national monument in Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument. These expansions aim to honor tribal heritage, meet federal conservation goals, and address climate change.
The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument expansion safeguards cultural lands sacred to the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians and the Gabrieleno San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians. It also protects diverse ecosystems and species such as black bears, mountain lions, and tule elk.
Vice President Harris’ Role
Vice President Kamala Harris, who represents California, played a key role in securing protections for her home state. She praised the designations, stating they will “increase access to nature, boost our outdoor economy, and honor areas of significance to Tribal Nations.”
Expanding Monuments for Californian Enjoyment
The expansion of both monuments expands opportunities for Californians to experience the beauty of nature. The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument now encompasses the highest peak in Los Angeles County, Mount San Antonio, while the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument expansion includes Clear Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in the state.
Advancing the “America the Beautiful” Initiative
These designations fall under the “America the Beautiful” initiative launched by President Biden in 2021. This initiative seeks to conserve 30% of America’s lands and waters by 2030. It marks the Biden administration’s commitment to safeguarding public lands for generations to come.
Ongoing Efforts for Tribal Protection
Coalitions of tribes and conservation groups have collaborated to urge President Biden to make additional monument designations. With the recent expansion in California, the administration has taken significant steps by establishing or broadening seven national monuments, restoring protections for three, and implementing other conservation measures.
Continued Legal Challenges
While the Biden administration continues its work, some Republicans and critics contend that these expansion efforts hinder resource use for agriculture and other purposes. Previous presidential moves to protect monuments have faced legal challenges, including the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni National Monument in Arizona.
Protecting Sacred Lands
Despite these challenges, the Biden administration remains dedicated to preserving culturally and historically significant sites. Designations such as the Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in Nevada and Castner Range in Texas underscore the importance of safeguarding sacred lands for the benefit of tribal communities and future generations.
Data sourced from: ktla.com
