Biden Expands Two California National Monuments in Response to Tribal Leaders' Calls

On Thursday, in response to appeals from tribal nations and Indigenous community leaders, President Joe Biden expanded two national monuments in California. The expansion seeks to provide permanent protection for nearly 120,000 acres of culturally and environmentally significant land.

Initiative and Goals

The expansions are part of President Biden’s "America the Beautiful" initiative, in line with his campaign promises. They also align with the Great American Outdoors Act. The initiative aims to honor tribal heritage, meet federal goals to conserve 30% of public lands and waters by 2030, and address climate change.

Vice President's Role

The White House emphasized the role of Vice President Kamala Harris in ensuring protections in her home state of California. Harris stated that the expansions will increase access to nature, boost the outdoor economy, and honor areas of significance to Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples.

Reaction and Criticism

While the expansions received support from various quarters, some Republicans and critics have raised concerns about the initiative. They argue that it ties up resources that could be crucial for agriculture and other uses. In some cases, they allege that President Biden has exceeded his legal authority.

Specific Expansions

In Southern California, the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument was expanded, driven by calls from Indigenous peoples, including the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians and the Gabrieleno San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians. In Northern California, the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument was expanded to include Molok Luyuk, or Condor Ridge.

Significance of Expansion

The Condor Ridge has been significant to tribal nations such as the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation for thousands of years. It is a central site for religious ceremonies and was once important to key trading routes. The expansion aims to make nature more accessible for Californians, while protecting a number of species, including black bears, mountain lions, and tule elk.

Call for Additional Designations

Californians are calling on the Biden administration to make a total of five monument designations this year. The other three include the designation of a new Chuckwalla National Monument, new Kw’tsán National Monument, and a call to protect and name Sáttítla, known as the Medicine Lake Highlands, as a national monument.