Tom Vilsack Secretary of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) | Official Website
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will join President Biden in celebrating the expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. Vice President Kamala Harris, who led the bill during her time in Congress, expressed her gratitude, stating, “These expansions will increase access to nature, boost our outdoor economy, and honor areas of significance to Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples.” Secretary Vilsack also praised the expansion, emphasizing that it ensures protection for future generations.
The expanded national monument includes a variety of sites and resources that showcase the rich history of the area, including a scenic railway, recreation resorts, and Cold War Nike missile facilities. Additionally, the diverse ecosystems in the expansion area will provide important connectivity for species to move between different habitats.
This designation builds on years of efforts from various groups, including Tribal Nations, state and local officials, conservation advocates, and members of Congress. The expansion aligns with President Biden’s climate, conservation, and environmental justice goals as part of his America the Beautiful Initiative.
President Biden's actions have already conserved more than 41 million acres of lands and waters, positioning him to be the President who has conserved the most lands and waters in history. The expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is part of this larger effort to protect natural resources and promote environmental justice.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture and its partners are also investing additional resources and staffing for the National Monument, including funding for rehabilitation and improvements in the area. Private philanthropy and state and federal agencies are contributing funds to enhance the health of the lands and waters in the monument.
President Biden also enlarged California’s Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, further demonstrating his commitment to conservation efforts. The expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is subject to existing rights and does not impede essential infrastructure maintenance.
By utilizing his authority under the Antiquities Act, President Biden has taken steps to protect and preserve these natural and historic features for future generations. The expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument highlights the importance of conservation efforts and the recognition of culturally significant landscapes.
For more information on the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, visit www.fs.usda.gov/visit/national-monuments/san-gabriel-mountains-national-monument.
