Trump Administration Reduces Utah National Monuments' Boundaries

Why it matters locally: The Trump administration's decision to reduce national monument boundaries in Utah could set a precedent for similar actions affecting Alaska's federally protected lands. Such changes could impact the management and access to significant natural and cultural sites within the state.

President Donald Trump today signed proclamations reducing the boundaries of Bears Ears National Monument and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah. This action revises the protections established by previous presidential administrations for these areas, which contain archaeological and historical features. Former Presidents designated both monuments under the Antiquities Act. President Bill Clinton established Grand Staircase-Escalante in 1996. President Barack Obama designated Bears Ears in 2016.