President Biden Expands Two California Monuments: San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument
Photo credit: John Watson
Today, President Biden announced the expansion of national monuments in California: San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument
These two monument designations expand some of California’s most popular open spaces, with abundant hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing and snowsports, and camping. The protections also bring both the state and the country closer to meeting their 30x30 goals, the effort to protect 30 percent of land and water before 2030 to address climate change.
The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is a well-known and beloved outdoor recreation space for 13 million people living in close proximity. Its rugged mountains and chaparral forests are home to popular hiking and biking trails, rock climbing, campgrounds and picnic areas. The monument protects nearly 70 percent of the open space in Los Angeles County, and it plays a crucial role in providing water to those who live in the metropolitan area. Within the San Gabriels are some of the tallest mountains in Southern California, which during the winter offers skiing, snowshoeing, and snowplay. Protected land also helps address the effects of climate change, including providing shade in hotter weather and access to the outdoors for nearby communities with fewer options for protected green space. Today’s designation completes the monument by including the Los Angeles river and watershed.
The designation of Molok Luyuk expands Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument by more than 13,000 acres. Molok Luyuk means “Condor Ridge'' in the Patwin language. The additional protections will conserve lands that are sacred to the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, improve land management, conserve incredible biodiversity and habitat, build climate resiliency and expand access to recreation in the area, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping. The inclusion of Molok Luyuk as part of Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument has received widespread support from congressional members, Tribal leaders, and the outdoor recreation community.
"Outdoor Alliance is thrilled to see the expansion of San Gabriel Mountains National Monument and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument. Today’s designations expand protections for some of California’s most popular outdoor landscapes. These areas are recreation gems beloved by people across the state. We are thankful for the work of Senator Padilla, Senator Butler, Representative Garamendi and Representative Thompson, Governor Newsom, and are especially grateful to the Biden administration for their commitment to conservation and preservation,” said Adam Cramer, CEO, Outdoor Alliance.
Steve Messer, President of the Concerned Off-Road Bicyclists Association, said, “The San Gabriel Mountains have been my backyard outdoor playground for the 40 years I’ve lived in their shadow. It warms my heart to know the entire range of the San Gabriel Mountains will now be protected for future generations to experience and enjoy under the expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument.”
“Expanding protected lands and recognizing tribal cultures within these lands is the type of management needed to both address climate change issues and protect the ability for everyone to enjoy California landscapes for years and years to come. Honoring the land and people in this way is a win for everyone,” said Kelly Bessem, California Stewardship Director, Winter Wildlands Alliance.
Surfrider is so proud to be a part of the designation of these national monuments. This expansion will enhance equitable access to nature, protect the upper Los Angeles River watershed, and safeguard a refuge for wildlife. Expanding the monument is the next step in a 20-year, locally-driven effort to protect the San Gabriel Mountains,” said Zach Plopper, Environmental Director, Surfrider Foundation.
“Access Fund is thrilled to see the designation and expansion of Moluk Luyuk and San Gabriel National Monument. These designations secure both sustainable recreation access and long-term conservation, a winning combination for health and wellness, our economy, and our environment. The Access Fund will continue to make sure that this new monument is protected for future generations and that all of us can sustainably access and enjoy these public lands,” said Katie Goodwin, California Regional Director, Access Fund.