The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument Expansion: A Historic Step Forward
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In a landmark move for conservation and cultural preservation, on May 2, 2024, President Joe Biden expanded the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument by 105,919 acres.This decision, celebrated by environmentalists and local communities alike, underscores the importance of protecting natural landscapes and recognizing the historical significance of these lands. The expansion not only preserves vital ecosystems but also acknowledges the cultural heritage of the indigenous Gabrielino Tongva Indian Tribe, who have long called this region home.
A Legacy of Protection and Preservation
The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, originally designated by President Obama in 2014, is now one of the largest protected areas near a major urban center, providing open space and clean water to over 15 million residents in the Los Angeles Basin. The new expansion adds 105,919 acres of U.S. Forest Service land, bringing the total protected area to over 452,000 acres. This expansion aims to enhance community access to green spaces, preserve culturally significant sites, and protect diverse ecosystems. The newly added areas stretch to the edge of neighborhoods such as Sylmar and Lakeview Terrace and extend to the city of Santa Clarita, bringing nature closer to communities that have historically lacked access to such resources.
The San Gabriel Mountains encompass a rich array of habitats, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, riparian woodlands, and conifer forests. These environments are vital for numerous species, including many that are sensitive, threatened, or endangered. Among these is the endangered California condor, which relies on the region as a crucial habitat. The expanded area of the monument further protects critical wildlife corridors, ensuring safe passage for migratory species such as the Arroyo toad and various bird species along the Pacific Flyway. This expansion is a key component of the Biden administration's broader goal to conserve 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030, addressing both ecological preservation and the need for equitable access to green spaces. The additional protections are seen as a triumph for underserved communities in Southern California, enhancing opportunities for outdoor recreation and environmental education.
Historical and Cultural Significance
For the Gabrielino Tongva and other Indigenous groups, the San Gabriel Mountains are more than a picturesque landscape—they are sacred lands with deep historical and cultural importance. The mountains have been integral to the Gabrielino Tongva people’s way of life for thousands of years, providing essential resources such as food, medicine, and materials for building and crafting. The area also holds numerous cultural and archaeological sites that are crucial to their spiritual and ceremonial practices. These lands are infused with ancestral stories and are the setting for many traditional rituals and ceremonies, such as gathering medicinal plants and honoring the spirits of their ancestors.
With the expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument in May of 2024, critical sites of cultural significance now receive federal protection. This expansion not only conserves the physical environment but also helps preserve the Gabrielino Tongva’s cultural heritage for future generations. This recognition of the Gabrielino Tongva’s enduring connection to these lands is an important step in honoring and safeguarding their history.
Community and Grassroots Advocacy
The expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument did not happen overnight. It was the result of years of grassroots efforts led by environmental advocates, local communities, and tribal leaders. Among the key advocates were Senator Alex Padilla and Representative Judy Chu, who played instrumental roles in rallying support for this expansion. Working closely with Indigenous groups, conservation organizations, and community coalitions, they emphasized the importance of protecting this natural treasure not only for its ecological value but also for its cultural and historical significance.
Belén Bernal, executive director of Nature for All, highlighted the critical need for equitable access to nature, especially for underserved communities in Southern California. For many low-income residents, the San Gabriel Mountains provide an essential refuge from urban life, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, birdwatching, and environmental education. The expansion ensures that these communities, which have historically had limited access to green spaces, can now enjoy the health and recreational benefits of the mountains’ clean air, cool streams, and rugged canyons.
Enhancing Visitor Experience and Stewardship
As visitation to the San Gabriel Mountains continues to grow, the expansion also brings a commitment to improving infrastructure and stewardship. The U.S. Forest Service, in collaboration with state agencies and private partners, is investing in the restoration of natural resources and the enhancement of visitor facilities. This includes the hiring of additional staff, such as field rangers and educators, to manage the increased traffic and ensure the protection of sensitive areas.
One of the key initiatives following the expansion is the establishment of a Federal Advisory Committee, which will oversee the development of a management plan for the monument. This plan will integrate Indigenous ecological knowledge, ensuring that conservation efforts respect the traditional practices of the Gabrielino Tongva and other local tribes. In addition, partnerships with Indigenous groups will allow for continued use of the land for ceremonial purposes and the sustainable harvesting of native plants.
Conclusion
The expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is a landmark achievement in conservation, community advocacy, and cultural preservation. It not only protects the diverse ecosystems and endangered species that inhabit the area but also acknowledges and safeguards the rich cultural heritage of the Gabrielino Tongva. Through the combined efforts of community advocates, Indigenous leaders, and policymakers, this expansion ensures that the mountains will remain a vital resource for both nature and people for generations to come. As we celebrate this victory, we are reminded of the power of collective action and the importance of protecting our natural and cultural treasures. This expansion not only marks a significant milestone in the preservation of natural landscapes but also highlights the importance of inclusive and collaborative efforts in environmental conservation. The San Gabriel Mountains, with their rich cultural history and ecological diversity, will continue to inspire and rejuvenate the communities that call this region home.
Citation:
“San Gabriel Mountains National Monument.” US Forest Service, www.fs.usda.gov/visit/national-monuments/san-gabriel-mountains-national-monument.
“USDA Celebrates President Biden’s 105,919-Acre Expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument.” USDA, www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2024/05/02/usda-celebrates-president-bidens-105919-acre-expansion-san-gabriel.
Wigglesworth, Alex. “San Gabriel Mountains National Monument Expands by More than 100,000 Acres.” Los Angeles Times, 2 May 2024, www.latimes.com/environment/story/2024-05-02/biden-expands-san-gabriel-mountains-national-monument.
“Fact Sheet: President Biden Expands San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument.” The White House, The United States Government, 1 May 2024, www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/05/02/fact-sheet-president-biden-expands-san-gabriel-mountains-national-monument-and-berryessa-snow-mountain-national-monument/.