Key takeaways from the announcements:

• President Biden announced the creation of two new national monuments in California.
• The designations aim to protect land from mining and energy development, honoring Native American tribes.
• Wildfires in Los Angeles delayed the original announcement planned in the Eastern Coachella Valley.
• The monuments cover over 624,000 acres, including rare species and significant natural landscapes.
• The new measures are part of a broader goal to conserve 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030.

President Joe Biden officially designated two significant sites in California as national monuments on Tuesday, a decision that underscores the administration's commitment to environmental conservation and the recognition of Native American heritage. This announcement, which took place at the White House, was postponed initially due to devastating wildfires in Los Angeles that had thwarted plans for a public event in California's Eastern Coachella Valley. High winds, which also contributed to the blazes, forced Biden to alter his plans and instead deliver the news virtually amidst images showcasing the area’s stunning natural beauty.

The two new monuments, Chuckwalla National Monument and Sáttítla Highlands National Monument, aim to protect vast landscapes from oil and gas drilling, mining, and other industrial activities. The Chuckwalla National Monument, located near Joshua Tree National Park, encompasses over 624,000 acres of land, while the Sáttítla Highlands site covers roughly 225,000 acres near the California-Oregon border. Both locations are home to more than 50 rare species, including the desert bighorn sheep and the eponymous Chuckwalla lizard, as stated by the White House. The vibrant ecosystems and striking terrains of areas like the Painted Canyon of Mecca Hills and Alligator Rock are now officially protected.

Reflecting on the measure's importance, Biden remarked, “Our national wonders are the heart and soul of this nation. It’s a birthright we pass on from generation to generation.” This perspective echoes the historical efforts of numerous Native American tribes and environmental organizations who have long advocated for the protection of these lands. The Pit River Tribe, in particular, has been instrumental in pushing for the recognition of the Sáttítla Highlands.

As part of a broader initiative to conserve at least 30% of U.S. lands and waters by 2030, Biden's recent actions also follow his ban on new offshore oil and gas drilling along much of the U.S. coastline, including areas in California. These steps are seen as crucial for addressing climate change as well as safeguarding vital natural resources.

Despite a humorous moment during his signing ceremony, where Biden acknowledged struggling with the pronunciation of "Sáttítla," his focus remains clear: to preserve and protect these essential lands amid the ongoing climate crisis. This latest move is part of an expansive effort by the Biden administration to ensure the conservation of the nation's natural beauty for future generations, despite challenges posed by a changing climate and natural disasters.

For further details, you can read more on the AP News or VOA News.