Washington, DC – Today, President Obama has designated the Mojave Trails, Sand to Snow, and Castle Mountains National Monuments in the California desert.

League of Conservation Voters (LCV) President Gene Karpinski released this statement:

“President Obama’s historic action will buffer the California desert, its wildlife and its communities from the greatest long-term challenge they face: climate change. Future generations will have President Obama to thank for their ability to access and explore the scenic, historic, and cultural treasures found in the Mojave Trails, Sand to Snow, and Castle Mountains National Monuments.  We celebrate the designation of these national monuments along with the nearby communities who strongly support protecting these spectacular landscapes to boost tourism and quality of life in the California desert.”

California League of Conservation Voters Chief Executive Officer Sarah Rose released this statement:

“We thank President Obama for his leadership in permanently protecting these important sites in the California desert. The California desert is one of the most unique and pristine places in the country. Californians and visitors from all over our country and the world over have long been drawn to its stark beauty, painted mountains, iconic Route 66, fascinating wildlife, Native American petroglyphs, inspirational vistas and storied history. The Mojave Trails, Sand to Snow and the Castle Mountains feature unparalleled scenery, making tourism and recreation an essential part of the region’s economy, and providing critical habitat for a healthy desert ecosystem. In addition to protecting recreation opportunities for generations to come, the National Monument designation by President Obama will safeguard sensitive water resources and help the desert cope with climate change by conserving and connecting habitat needed by plants and animals to survive, migrate, and adapt.”

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