More than 70 organizations voice support for proposed California desert monument

Seventy-one organizations, including fifty-eight California-based groups, have called on the Biden administration to designate the Chuckwalla National Monument in the Sonoran desert near Joshua Tree national park. The monument will safeguard more than 600,000 acres of wildlife habitats, traditional homeland of indigenous peoples, recreation opportunities and military history.

Groups signing on to the statement of support issued the following statements:

“We must protect California’s desert habitats for the sake of its imperiled species,” said Laura Deehan, Environment California State Director. “The Sonoran pronghorn, desert tortoises, and Chuckwalla lizards need their homes to be protected, not criss-crossed by new roads and disturbed by new development.”

“In the spirit of preservation, unity, and reverence for our shared heritage, Latino Outdoors proudly stands alongside Tribal leaders, community leaders, veterans and over 70 organizations advocating for the protection of Chuckwalla. By working together, we can ensure that all communities have equitable access to nature and ancestral lands for generations” said Jazzari Taylor, Policy Advocate – Advocate for Equity in the Outdoors, Latino Outdoors.

“A Chuckwalla National Monument will help ensure more equitable access to nature for residents of the Eastern Coachella Valley, Blythe, and other local communities. And protecting these lands will help safeguard the desert’s biodiversity, wildlife habitat, and habitat connectivity in the face of the climate crises. We hope President Biden hears the call from Tribes and local communities, that Chuckwalla is worthy and in need of permanent protection as soon as possible,” said Maricela Rosales, California Associate Program Director for Conservation Lands Foundation.

“The Sierra Club stands proudly with Indigenous leaders, elected officials, local businesses, faith leaders, veterans and community members calling for the designation of Chuckwalla National Monument,” said Jackie Feinberg, National Lands Conservation Campaign Manager at Sierra Club. “Chuckwalla’s designation would be a boon for both residents and businesses—helping increase equitable access to nature for nearby communities while also enhancing recreational opportunities that make local cities more attractive for businesses and investment. We hope President Biden continues to build on his commitment to protect our health and environment by fully protecting this one-of-a-kind landscape.”