Editor’s note updated July 10, 2017: The public comment period has closed.
Our country’s public lands define who we are. These are the places where we work, where we play and where we connect to our shared history. Now is the time to stand up for these places—places that help us live a life outdoors.
Right now, the Department of the Interior, headed by Secretary Ryan Zinke, is undertaking an unprecedented review of 27 national monuments established by presidents from both parties since 1996, including the San Gabriel Mountains in California, Craters of the Moon in Idaho, and Bears Ears in Utah. More than 11 million acres of national public land are at stake.
The Department of the Interior wants to hear from you. And we want to make it easy for you to speak up.
As you write in support below, reference your own personal tie to our national public lands. If you’ve ever explored a national monument, if your job depends on a monument, if your family or community benefits because it’s near these majestic outdoor spaces—or if you have a deep love for our national parks and forests and want them protected—share your story here.
The public call for comment ends on July 10.
Consider these tips when commenting:
- Use your own words, the Department of Interior is looking for unique content.
- Mention a specific monument (or monuments) by name.
- Tell your story—your personal connection to the monument(s).