Downsized national monuments threaten Native American history, opponents say

Whether it’s construction of a proposed oil pipeline across Native American lands or the federal government’s recent decision to downsize national monuments in the West, many people who have lived in these areas for decades say their voices aren’t being heard.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is drafting an Environmental Impact Statement and Monumental Management plan for the Bears Ears National Monument and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. The BLM is accepting comments from the public to express concerns and suggestions for the management of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante. 

The comments for the management of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante opened Aug. 17, but ended for both monuments in November.

According to U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management website, BLM Utah State Director Ed Roberson invites the public to review the proposed plans and encourages the public to think about future generations.