Art de la Cruz House District 12 | Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter
President Biden has designated Avi Kwa Ame in Nevada and Castner Range in Texas as the latest national monuments, providing permanent protection for approximately 514,000 acres of landscapes. The designation includes about 6,600 acres of Castner Range at Fort Bliss, known for its prehistoric habitations and rare wildlife.
Laurence Gibson, chair of the El Paso Group of the Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter, responded to this announcement. "The Sierra Club has been working to protect Castner Range for more than 50 years," Gibson stated. He highlighted the area's significance: "Castner Range is a natural treasure with historic connections to our military and veterans community."
Gibson expressed gratitude towards President Biden and Secretary Haaland for their commitment to preserving these lands. He also acknowledged local support: "We thank all who have worked tirelessly to protect Castner Range including Congressman Beto O’Rourke, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar, Mayor Oscar Leeser, and Judge Ricardo Samaniego."
The designation marks a significant step in conservation efforts and recognizes the historical importance of these areas.
