Biden creates 2 new national monuments, setting a conservation record

President Biden is set to announce the establishment of two new national monuments in California, marking a significant achievement in conservation efforts. This initiative not only protects these lands from development but also sets a record for the largest area of land and water conserved by any U.S. president, according to the White House.

The Sáttítla Highlands National Monument spans over 224,000 acres in Northern California and includes the ancestral territories of the Pit River Tribe and Modoc Peoples. At its center lies a dormant volcano, and the area is notable for housing the longest-known lava tube system globally.

In addition, the Chuckwalla National Monument encompasses more than 624,000 acres south of Joshua Tree National Park. This region is vital for five indigenous groups and is home to 50 rare plant and animal species, including the Chuckwalla lizard, highlighting its ecological importance.

The Chuckwalla monument forms part of an extensive network of protected areas, known as the Moab to Mojave Conservation Corridor. This corridor stretches approximately 600 miles and encompasses nearly 18 million acres across California, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah.

Overall, Biden's administration has safeguarded a remarkable 674 million acres of land and waters through various monuments and designations during his time in office, reinforcing commitment to environmental conservation.