National Monument Designation

Rep. Greg Walden (R-Hood River) released a statement after President Trump signed an executive order directing a review of national monument designations declared under the Antiquities Act since 1996:

"Today's action sends a clear signal to communities throughout the West – including in Oregon – that this administration is serious about taking a new approach to the management of our federal lands. In Oregon we've watched the problems left behind in the wake of national monument designations that lock up land without meaningful public input. A review of the Antiquities Act is long overdue. I'm pleased that President Trump has finally ordered one. Farmers, ranchers, and local residents in Oregon have been ignored for too long by presidents who lock up the land without local consultations. This executive order is a refreshing sign that their concerns are being taken seriously. 

"Now, Congress needs to take action to reform the Antiquities Act. That's why I've also introduced the Public Input for National Monument Act, to require these designations to go through the public National Environmental Policy Act process like all other land management decisions.  I will continue to work with the Trump Administration to rebuild public trust in federal land management policies. Today's action will assist in that effort."

You may recall the Obama administration's last-second actions on this matter as being infuriating to much of the country.