Biden creates new national monuments to protect Native American lands in California

In early January 2025, President Joe Biden signed decrees to establish two new national monuments in California, marking a significant move in his conservation efforts. The Chuckwalla National Monument covers an area of 624,000 acres in Southern California, near Joshua Tree National Park, while the Sáttítla National Monument encompasses approximately 225,000 acres in Northern California. These actions are part of Biden's broader "America the Beautiful" initiative aimed at protecting and preserving at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. The initiative emphasizes honoring the cultural heritage of Native American tribes and conservation efforts pertaining to climate change. The creation of the Chuckwalla and Sáttítla National Monuments signifies a deep commitment to environmental protection, especially in areas that hold cultural importance for Indigenous peoples. The site of the Chuckwalla monument, for example, includes diverse ecosystems critical for local wildlife and clean water access for nearby communities. By prohibiting activities such as mining and drilling in these regions, the new designations aim to safeguard vital natural resources and maintain the cultural legacies tied to these landscapes. The initiative has garnered support from various Native American tribes and environmental organizations, all advocating for the protection of these significant sites that hold historical and ecological relevance. Donald Trump’s administration had previously proposed expanding drilling and mining operations in parts of California, leading to concerns over environmental degradation. This recent action by Biden aims to counteract such plans and firmly realign federal priorities toward conservation and sustainable management of natural resources. The establishment of these monuments also promotes collaborative governance involving local tribes, enhancing their role in managing these sacred and significant lands. This approach mirrors recent practices seen in other national monuments, where cooperative management acknowledges tribal sovereignty and historical injustices. The administration hopes to restore these relationships and ensure that the perspectives of Indigenous groups are incorporated into broader land management strategies. Overall, this development represents a critical step in addressing climate change and recognizing the rights and stewardship of Native American tribes over their ancestral lands.