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-Editorial
In a move to safeguard California’s cultural and ecological heritage, President Joe Biden has proclaimed the Chuckwalla National Monument, protecting approximately 624,270 acres in southeastern California. The monument, which lies between Joshua Tree National Park and the Palen/McCoy Wilderness, is home to diverse wildlife and rich Indigenous history, making it a vital addition to the nation’s preserved lands.
Located near the California-Arizona border, Chuckwalla National Monument spans across the eastern Mojave Desert. The vast desert landscape features rugged mountains, valleys, and distinctive desert vegetation. Situated between Blythe and Desert Center, the area is known for its diverse ecosystems, including populations of the chuckwalla lizard, the namesake of the monument, and an array of rare species such as desert bighorn sheep and Agassiz’s desert tortoise.
“I am thrilled that President Biden has designated the Chuckwalla National Monument using the Antiquities Act,” said Congressman Raul Ruiz (CA-25), a long-time advocate for the area’s preservation. “This milestone is the result of years of negotiation and collaboration among tribes, organizations, and local communities. Chuckwalla will play an essential role in shaping the future of conservation and renewable energy, and I appreciate Senators Padilla and Butler for their unwavering support.”
The Chuckwalla region holds deep cultural significance for various Tribal Nations, including the Cahuilla, Chemehuevi, Mojave, Quechan, and Serrano. The area contains numerous sacred sites and artifacts that reflect the enduring connection of Indigenous peoples to the land.
“Protecting the Chuckwalla region will preserve an important spiritual, cultural, prehistoric, and historic legacy,” President Biden stated in the proclamation, underscoring the importance of safeguarding the area’s diverse resources for future generations. The monument is also poised to become a hub for scientific research, offering valuable insights into the complex desert ecosystems and climate change impacts.
Chuckwalla National Monument’s unique geological formations and diverse habitats have long drawn the interest of scientists. More than 50 rare species inhabit the area, making it a vital region for conservation efforts. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will oversee the monument’s management, focusing on preserving its natural and cultural resources while facilitating public access and Indigenous knowledge integration.
“We were proud to support Congressman Ruiz’s legislation to designate Chuckwalla National Monument,” said Jamie Asbury, General Manager of the Imperial Irrigation District (IID). “This designation ensures the region’s preservation for future generations and secures its place as a critical part of our natural and cultural heritage.”
Public involvement will play a key role in the management of Chuckwalla National Monument, with Tribal Nations and local communities consulted to ensure that traditional ecological knowledge is integrated into conservation strategies. The BLM will develop a management plan within three years to maintain the monument’s undeveloped character and protect its sacred sites.
Beyond its ecological and cultural significance, Chuckwalla National Monument offers ample recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, camping, and wildlife observation, contributing to the region’s tourism economy.
