Chuckwalla Desert Protection: New National Monument and Joshua Tree Park Expansion
This Act establishes the Chuckwalla National Monument (over 621,000 acres) in California, protecting unique desert ecosystems, cultural heritage of Native Tribes, and historical sites. These changes ensure citizens continued access to outdoor recreation, such as hiking and camping, on designated routes. Simultaneously, the Act prohibits new mining and mineral leasing on this land, safeguarding it from further industrial development.
Key points
The establishment of the Chuckwalla National Monument protects over 621,000 acres of federal land, preserving valuable ecosystems and sites of historical and scientific interest.
Recreation, including hiking, camping, horseback riding, and hunting, remains authorized and will be enhanced, but motorized vehicle use is restricted strictly to designated roads and trails.
The Act guarantees Native Tribes access to the land for cultural and spiritual purposes and ensures their participation in the management of the new monument.
The Monument land is withdrawn from all new forms of mining, mineral leasing, and disposal, but existing rights and utility infrastructure (energy, telecom) are protected and may be upgraded.
Joshua Tree National Park is expanded by an additional 17,842 acres, increasing the protected area available to visitors.
Expired
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