Public invited to join celebration of the San Juan Islands National Monument 10th anniversary
Organization
BLM Office:
Media Contact:
Friday Harbor, WA – March 25 marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the San Juan Islands National Monument. President Barack Obama signed the proclamation on March 25, 2013, to preserve the “historical and cultural significance [of the islands] and enhance their unique and varied natural and scientific resources for the benefit of all Americans.”
Bureau of Land Management leadership invites the public to join the celebration at the San Juan Island Grange at 152 First St N, Friday Harbor, from 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. on March 25, 2023.
“This celebration is important for so many reasons,” said Kurt Pindel, Spokane District Manager. “Not the least of which is to show appreciation for the community's efforts and engagement. Their work helped create the Monument, and they have helped us come up with a plan to ensure these scenic and recreational treasures will be protected for generations to come.”
Situated at the heart of the Salish Sea, the San Juan Islands National Monument encompasses a landscape of unmatched contrasts. Forests seem to spring from rock and distant, snow-capped peaks provide the backdrop for sandy beaches. These islands hold a variety of cultural resources, including Coast Salish sites and picturesque historic lighthouses. The diverse habitats found on these islands provide a refuge for countless species of mammals, birds, and insects.
The ceremony also marks the completion of the collaborative efforts resulting in a new resource management plan (RMP). The BLM’s recently approved RMP is the latest milestone to be accomplished during the Monument’s first 10 years. The plan outlines the BLM’s objectives for the Monument, which include preserving the varied cultural and historic resources; coordinating the management of these lands with Coast Salish Tribes, government agencies, and partner organizations; and providing the public with sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.