Obama Creates Largest National Monument: Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks
Overview
President Obama has designated the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks region in southern New Mexico as the newest national monument. At 500,000 acres, it is the largest national monument created by any president. The monument is home to stunning scenery, including desert grasslands, canyons, and mountains. It also contains hundreds of archaeological sites, Geronimo’s Cave, and astronaut-training sites from the Apollo program.
Controversy
The designation of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument has been met with some controversy. Some community leaders and organizations supported the presidential protection of the area, citing its archaeological significance and environmental value. However, ranchers and Rep. Steven Pearce (R-N.M.) opposed the designation, arguing that it was too far-reaching and represented an overreach on the part of the administration.
Archaeological and Historical Significance
The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument is rich in archaeological and historical resources. It contains petroglyphs from three American Indian societies, as well as a petrified forest and hundreds of other archaeological sites. Geronimo’s Cave, where the Apache leader Geronimo and his followers took refuge during the Apache Wars, is also located within the monument.
NASA Connection
The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument has a unique connection to space exploration. During the Apollo program, NASA used the area for astronaut training. Astronauts trained in the rugged terrain and simulated lunar landings in the monument’s canyons.
Scenery and Recreation
In addition to its archaeological and historical significance, the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument is also a place of great beauty. The monument offers stunning views of the Organ Mountains, desert grasslands, and White Sands missile range. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing in the monument.
Comparison to Other National Monuments
The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument is the largest national monument created by President Obama. It is more than twice the size of the next largest national monument, the Rio del Norte monument, which was declared last year. The Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument is also larger than any national monument created by President George W. Bush.
Future of the Monument
The future of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument is uncertain. The Trump administration has proposed reducing the size of the monument, and it is unclear whether the monument will retain its current boundaries. However, the monument is a valuable resource that protects important archaeological, historical, and natural resources. It is hoped that the monument will continue to be protected and enjoyed by future generations.