Look West: Public lands and energy news from the Center for Western Priorities
** Trump moves to reverse Chaco protections
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Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Source: Greg Willis via Wikimedia Commons ([link removed](8023723138).jpg)
The Trump administration will initiate formal Tribal consultation meetings ([link removed]) to consider revoking a 20-year ban on oil and gas drilling on federal land surrounding Chaco Culture National Historical Park in New Mexico. President Joe Biden issued an order banning new oil and gas development within 10 miles of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023.
The Bureau of Land Management made the announcement ([link removed]) in a letter sent to Tribal leaders last week. The agency will conduct an environmental assessment of the proposal to lease federal parcels in the region, and a public comment period will follow.
The New Mexico congressional delegation swiftly condemned the action, releasing a joint statement ([link removed]) of opposition, saying, “Chaco Canyon is one of the most important living cultural landscapes on the planet,” and, “To deface and destroy this irreplaceable and sacred landscape is not only morally wrong: It is utterly disrespectful to the Pueblos, Tribal Nations, and New Mexicans who have called for permanent protection of the Chaco landscape.”
** Quick hits
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Navajo Nation is divided as its leader embraces Trump and coal
New York Times ([link removed])
As Utah's national parks stay open, so do questions about the shutdown's impact
Utah News Dispatch ([link removed])
New Mexico leaders condemn Trump's move to reverse Chaco protections
Associated Press ([link removed])
Colorado public health department seeks settlement over failed uranium site cleanup
Denver Post ([link removed])
All Wyoming migration corridors overlap with proposed oil and gas leases
Jackson Hole News & Guide ([link removed])
Donors are doing everything to keep Muir Woods National Monument open
SFGate ([link removed])
Energy department announces $100 million to modernize declining coal plants
Inside Climate News ([link removed]) | E&E News ([link removed])
Opinion: Repealing the Public Lands Rule puts Wyoming's outdoor heritage at risk
WyoFile ([link removed])
** Quote of the day
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” The biggest thing of all is that without proper care, we’re going to diminish forever what we’ve sought to protect.”
—Dan Wenk, former National Park Service acting director and superintendent of Yellowstone National Park, National Parks Traveler ([link removed]) .
** Picture This
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@curtgowdystatepark ([link removed])
It's definitely autumn at Curt Gowdy State Park. The leaves have changed, the weather is changing too, and it's getting less busy. That means it's the perfect time to come out to the park! Some things to remember if you're coming to visit:
🏕️ All of our campsites are currently first-come, first-serve. Be sure to check in at the Visitor Center!
❄️ It's getting colder! Over the next week temperatures will start to fall into 50s during the day and 30s at night.
🚰 Water has been turned off at all of our sites! Be sure to plan accordingly.
☀️Just because it's getting colder, doesn't mean water and sunscreen aren't important! Be sure to come prepared!
As always, feel free to message us with any questions, comments, or concerns!
#FindSomethingUnexpected ([link removed])
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