Statement: Castner Range National Monument means more nature for Texas

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AUSTIN, Texas — President Joe Biden will designate the Castner Range, a 7,081-acre former Army artillery facility in the Franklin Mountains near El Paso, as a national monument on Tuesday. This area’s Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem hosts diverse wildlife, including mountain lions, foxes, rabbits and 62 bird species, including majestic eagles and hawks. In addition to protecting these animal habitats, establishing a national monument will create lasting outdoor recreation opportunities for the hundreds of thousands of people who live in and near El Paso.

 

Environment Texas Executive Director Luke Metzger issued the following statement:

“Thanks to President Biden and Representative Escobar for everything they did to make the Castner Range a national monument. Texans need more nature and this area is a great example of land we can both enjoy and share with wildlife, including threatened species such as the western burrowing owl. Cleaning up unexploded ordnance and opening up the Castner Range for recreational opportunities including hiking, camping and biking will be good for the El Paso community and good for Texas. We can’t wait to visit our newest national monument.”

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