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In May, the pro-motorized recreation Blue Ribbon Coalition, along with a man alleging to hold a valid mining claim within Chuckwalla National Monument, filed a lawsuit challenging President Joe Biden's use of the Antiquities Act to designate the monument. The Blue Ribbon Coalition was highlighted in a Center for Western Priorities report, The National Monuments Disinformation Brigade, that identifies groups that spread disinformation about national monument designations. On Monday, a coalition of several Tribes and the Native American Rights Fund filed a motion to intervene in the case "to protect and defend their interests in the monument." In filing to intervene, the various organizations pointed to their years-long efforts to identify and document the resources in need of protection and to shape the monument's boundaries.
"For years, we worked with our neighbors across southeastern California to get this monument designation," said Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians Chair Joseph Mirelez. "For the Torres Martinez, the region embodies our people’s origin stories, cultural traditions, and spiritual practices. We are committed to protecting Chuckwalla."
A number of conservation groups have also filed to intervene. "Chuckwalla National Monument is beloved, broadly supported across the political spectrum, and fundamental to our shared history," said Chance Wilcox, California Desert program manager for the National Parks Conservation Association. "We must defend it fiercely, ensuring that future generations can connect with and cherish this extraordinary landscape."
What’s next for Utah after SCOTUS snub and Mike Lee flame-out?
What the heck is Utah up to now that it’s land grab lawsuit has been snubbed by the Supreme Court and Senator Mike Lee has made public land sell-off untouchable in Congress? In the latest episode of the Center for Western Priorities podcast, The Landscape, Kate and Aaron put that question to John Ruple, a Professor of Law and Stegner Center Fellow at the University of Utah, and Steve Bloch, legal director of the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance.
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Ten years ago, I would have told you that National Park Service lands are untouchable. Every day, I think we're one news cycle away from losing park land.”
