WASHINGTON – (INT) - President Biden has signed a proclamation expanding the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument.

The designation protects an area rich cultural history, striking geological features that provide views into the ancient earth and ecological diversity with hundreds of species of native, rare and sensitive plants and animals.

“The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is a crown jewel for Los Angeles,” declared Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “It is a backyard to millions of people, and is also home to cultural resources, rare animals and plants, unique geology, and dynamic forests, rivers and high peaks,” said Vilsack.

The designation builds on decades of efforts from Tribal Nations, state and local officials, conservation and outdoor recreation advocates, local business owners, and members of Congress.

There will be additional staffing for the National Monument. This includes more field rangers, interpretation and visitor engagement jobs, support from the Tiuvac’a’ai’ Tribal Conservation Corps, and $2.3 million in funding under the Great American Outdoors Act.

Story Date: May 12, 2024