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6 episodes with grand staircase escalante
5 episodes with grand staircase escalante
2 episodes with grand staircase escalante
4 episodes with grand staircase escalante
2 episodes with grand staircase escalante
2 episodes with grand staircase escalante
2 episodes with grand staircase escalante
2 episodes with grand staircase escalante
2 episodes with grand staircase escalante
In this week's public lands news briefing, we are covering three main stories:1. Minnesota's Governor Tim Walz signed an executive order using the power he has to help protect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, but the fight is not over yet. This action is somewhat complicated and has caused some confusion, so I break down what it really means and what we need to do next.2. Mining claims have been staked in Grand Staircase-Escalante and Bears Ears National Monuments in Utah following Trump's reduction in monument size ft. Autumn Gillard, a Southern Paiute and coordinator of the Grand Staircase-Escalante Inter-Tribal Coalition.Grand Staircase-Escalante Inter-Tribal Coalition: https://grandstaircasecoalition.org/ 3. Bulldozers have been at work in Big Bend National Park, but further destruction was recently paused. The fight is far from over to protect the Big Bend region as a whole from this border wall construction ft. Christina Hernandez, director of the People of La Junta for Preservation and executive director of the Big Bend Conservation Alliance.People of La Junta: https://www.peopleoflajunta.org/Big Bend Conservation Alliance: https://www.bigbendconservationalliance.org/ ------------------Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outdoor.minimalist.book/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theoutdoorminimalist Website: https://www.theoutdoorminimalist.com/ Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/outdoorminimalist Listener Survey: https://forms.gle/jd8UCN2LL3AQst976 ------------------Episode Sourceshttps://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/executive-orders/ https://www.savetheboundarywaters.org/what-governor-walzs-executive-order-means-future-boundary-waters https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/trump-administration-pauses-border-construction-project-in-big-bend-national-park https://www.texastribune.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Big-Bend-lawsuit-People-of-La-Junta.pdf https://biologicaldiversity.org/programs/public_lands/pdfs/034-Pls-Emergency-Mot.-for-TRO-or-PI.pdf https://westernpriorities.org/2026/08/mining-claims-filed-on-land-removed-from-utah-monuments/
Photo: Carlson Center in Fairbanks, Alaska will host the 2028 Arctic Winter Games. (Quintin Soloviev / Wikimedia) The Arctic Winter Games International Committee has chosen Fairbanks, Alaska to host the games in 2028. Organizers chose to buck an April decision that would have moved to a three-year cycle temporarily. The announcement means the next Arctic Winter Games, which had been set for 2029, will happen a year earlier than was planned. A statement from the committee's president says an “extraordinary” proposal from Fairbanks this spring made it possible to return to the traditional two-year cycle. “Working with the Fairbanks North Star Borough, the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, the State of Alaska, and numerous community partners, the Host Society demonstrated the community’s readiness to host the Games.” The international competition brings together about 2,000 youth participants from across the Circumpolar North, including Alaska, Canada, and Nordic countries. The multi-sport event and Indigenous cultural celebration started in 1970 and features sports like hockey, skiing, and curling as well as Dene games, such as the finger pull and snow snake. The competition took place in Whitehorse, Canada last winter. It was last hosted in Alaska in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough in 2024. The games have come to Fairbanks three times – twice in the 1980s and again in 2014. The Northwest Territories had been slated to host the 2028 iteration of the event, but withdrew its bid in 2024. Its Municipal and Community Affairs Minister cited reasons like insufficient capacity and facilities, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation reported at the time. (Courtesy Tohono O'odham Nation) Over the weekend, a tribe in southern Arizona warned that border wall contractors may soon encroach upon their lands. As KJZZ's Gabriel Pietrorazio reports, the tribe says it is ready to deal with trespassers. According to the Tohono O'odham Code, the tribe may impose up to a $5,000 fine for civil trespassing. Tribal police would escort any offender off the reservation sharing a 62-mile boundary with Mexico. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, led by Secretary Markwayne Mullin (Cherokee) is looking to erect a border wall there. The Tohono O'odham Nation has sued, claiming its sovereignty would be violated should the Trump administration be allowed to proceed. While Customs and Border Protection is aware of the tribe's warning, the federal agency declined to comment due to ongoing litigation. Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in Utah. (Courtesy U.S. Bureau of Land Management) Native Tribes and conservation groups are preparing to sue the Trump administration after the president signed orders to sharply reduce the size of two national monuments in Utah. Mark Richardson has details. Republicans are celebrating the move, while Tribes and environmentalists say it strips protections from culturally significant public lands. Gov. Spencer Cox (R-UT) and Utah’s congressional delegation joined the president to celebrate the signing of the orders. Steve Bloch, legal director for the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance, calls conservatives’ vision for the state’s wildlands “wrong-headed”. “(U.S. Sen.) Mike Lee (R-UT)’s vision of the American West is not one with sweeping federal public lands. His view of the American West is Utah and other western states should be the South Carolina of the West, with almost no public land.” President Trump reduced the area of the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments by about three million acres from their current boundaries – roughly 90% of the original protected area. Polling shows that 65% of Utah voters support keeping Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante protected as national monuments. Utah Republicans have long pushed to reduce or eliminate the two national monuments to allow mining and other economic development on the land. President Donald Trump speaks at the Utah State Capitol in 2017 before issuing a proclamation reducing boundaries for the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments. Trump first reduced the monuments in 2017 during his first term, but President Joe Biden restored the areas. Bloch says he believes Trump is misinformed about the value of the monuments. “I think he really didn’t know what he was talking about. The line that everybody is hooked into that, as he understood it, you couldn’t hunt, fish, or walk in the monuments, and that is so demonstrably false.” The Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition, formed by the Hopi, Zuni, Ute Mountain Ute, Navajo Nation and Ute Tribes, called it a major setback to an extraordinary collaboration on public lands between Tribal Nations and federal agencies. Bloch says it was a bitter pill for the tribes to swallow. “The tribes are angry. They are really disappointed. It’s just a lot of pain from yet another attempt by the nation to try and undo their footprint.” Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out today’s Native America Calling episode Tuesday, August 11, 2026 — Tribes face record-setting wildfire destruction
The fallout over the Trump Administration's decision to slash the size of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante monuments continue this morning. Now, we're getting insights into what the White House knew before the decision. When signing the executive order, President Trump said recreation in the area was virtually impossible, and that was a reason to cut the size -- so more people could allegedly use them. But documents uncovered by The New York Times show that the White House knew that wasn't exactly true.
The culture of the Yurok tribe in Northern California is deeply intertwined with the Klamath river's salmon. So, when toxic conditions caused by the dams on the river resulted in a massive fish kill, the Yurok people sprang into action and secured the historic removal of four dams, a story captured in The Water Remembers: My Indigenous Family's Fight to Save a River and a Way of Life. Also, on July 13, 2026, President Trump issued a proclamation reducing the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments in southern Utah by about 90 percent, to remove almost 3 million acres from monument status. We discuss the significance of these places to several local tribes who co-manage them, and why in their view the President lacks the authority to slash monuments. And on Mars, our planet's rocky twin, NASA's Perseverance Rover is seeking signs of past life, and now scientists say they may have uncovered some of the most compelling evidence yet, in the form of complex carbon molecules in Martian mudstones. That and more, next time on Living on Earth from PRX. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In today's archaeology news episode, we discuss three articles, starting with a discovery at the Maya city of Xiulán, Guatemala: a small room interpreted as a scribe/astronomer workspace with 11 hieroglyphs naming Sak Ton Wax (“white-chested fox”) and more than 50 mathematical “micro texts” tracking Venus and Mars as the author. We then cover a report that President Trump reduced Grand Staircase–Escalante and Bears Ears by nearly three million acres, opening lands to mining and ending the Bears Ears Commission's tribal co-stewardship. Finally, we discuss a report on an executive order to post warnings outside the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History about “inaccurate information,” and we argue it politicizes history and promotes alternative narratives. Links Segment 1 Archaeologists decipher the name of a Maya astronomer for the first time Meet Sak Tahn Waax, a Maya Math Whiz Who Lived More Than 1,000 Years Ago and Left Behind a ‘Really Elegant, Complex' Formula Segment 2 President Trump drastically shrinks 2 Utah national monuments — again Segment 3 Trump orders signage warning visitors of ‘inaccurate information' at Smithsonian Contact Chris Webster chris@archaeologypodcastnetwork.com Rachel Roden rachel@unraveleddesigns.com RachelUnraveled (Instagram) ArchPodNet APN Website: https://www.archpodnet.com APN Discord: https://discord.com/invite/CWBhb2T2ed APN on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/archpodnet APN on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/archpodnet APN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/archpodnet APN Shop Affiliates Motion Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In today's archaeology news episode, we discuss three articles, starting with a discovery at the Maya city of Xiulán, Guatemala: a small room interpreted as a scribe/astronomer workspace with 11 hieroglyphs naming Sak Ton Wax (“white-chested fox”) and more than 50 mathematical “micro texts” tracking Venus and Mars as the author. We then cover a report that President Trump reduced Grand Staircase–Escalante and Bears Ears by nearly three million acres, opening lands to mining and ending the Bears Ears Commission's tribal co-stewardship. Finally, we discuss a report on an executive order to post warnings outside the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History about “inaccurate information,” and we argue it politicizes history and promotes alternative narratives. Links Segment 1 Archaeologists decipher the name of a Maya astronomer for the first time Meet Sak Tahn Waax, a Maya Math Whiz Who Lived More Than 1,000 Years Ago and Left Behind a ‘Really Elegant, Complex' Formula Segment 2 President Trump drastically shrinks 2 Utah national monuments — again Segment 3 Trump orders signage warning visitors of ‘inaccurate information' at Smithsonian Contact Chris Webster chris@archaeologypodcastnetwork.com Rachel Roden rachel@unraveleddesigns.com RachelUnraveled (Instagram) ArchPodNet APN Website: https://www.archpodnet.com APN Discord: https://discord.com/invite/CWBhb2T2ed APN on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/archpodnet APN on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/archpodnet APN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/archpodnet APN Shop Affiliates Motion Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Scott Braden, Executive Director of the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance (SUWA), speaks about the proposed reductions to Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments, what those changes could mean for public lands and cultural resources, and how people can stay engaged in the conversation.
Director of Designation Campaigns for The Wilderness Society, Axie Navas, talks about the proposed reductions to Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments, the role of tribal stewardship, and why these public lands matter to communities, wildlife, and future generations.
The Rod and Greg Show Daily Rundown - Friday, July 17, 20264:20 pm: Stephen Soukup, Director of The Political Forum Institute, joins the show to discuss his piece for American Greatness on how the politicization of everything allows for shady tactics in attempts to gain power.4:38 pm: Todd Bensman, Senior Research Fellow at the Heritage Foundation's Border Security and Immigration Center, joins Rod and Greg to discuss his piece about why stopping asylum fraud schemes should be the next tool used to secure the nation's borders.5:05pm: Cleta Mitchell, Founder of the Election Integrity Network and a Senior Research Fellow at the Conservative Partnership Institute, joins the program to discuss the takeaways from President Trump's speech last night, and to explain why people from the intelligence community haven't been prosecuted for hiding information about the election from Trump.6:05 pm: Jennifer Graham, Ideas and Culture Editor for the Deseret News, joins Rod and Greg for a conversation about her piece on President Trump's claim of having an approval rating of 59% with no polls found to substantiate the claim.6:20 pm: We'll listen back to this week's conversations with Utah Speaker of the House Mike Schulz on his conversations with President Trump as the President prepared to deliver on his promise to shrink the acreage footprint of Bears Ears and Grand-Staircase Escalante, and (at 6:38 pm) with Peter Laffin of the Washington Examiner on how President Trump needs to reset the conversation about Iran, beginning with American citizens.6:50 pm: A new episode of CEO's You Should Know with April James of Hearts Knit Together.
U.S. Forest Service Spokesperson Brenda Bushell has an update on the Buck Basin Fire in Wasatch County, which is now 64% contained, Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance Executive Director Scott Braden discusses the 90% reduction of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments by President Donald Trump and Charleston Community Heritage Foundation's Jana Brown and Jessica Shepherd preview the town's annual July 24 Pioneer Day festivities.
Today's Headlines: ICE has halted most traffic stop arrests nationwide after killing two people in one week who weren't even their targets — and before that pause could even be properly announced, a third ICE-related death occurred in Florida when a man fleeing an early morning gas station stop was hit by a tractor-trailer, bringing the week's total to three. Elon Musk has been referred for potential criminal prosecution in Wisconsin after a bipartisan election board found probable cause he violated the state's bribery law by handing $1 million checks to voters during last year's Supreme Court race — his guy lost by ten points anyway, so the bribery was both illegal and ineffective. The Supreme Court is requesting $15 million in additional security funding after threats against justices jumped 25% last year and are expected to jump another 40% this year. On the Epstein Files beat, Todd Blanche's Senate confirmation hearing to become the real attorney general is today, right as New Mexico's attorney general accused him of obstructing the state's investigation into Epstein's Zorro Ranch — where documents allege Epstein had two women buried — so the timing is immaculate. On Iran, Trump dropped the Strait of Hormuz toll idea and went back to threatening Iranian civilian infrastructure, while also telling Netanyahu to pull Israeli troops out of Syria and Lebanon. Meanwhile, the Trump administration removed protections on nearly three million acres of Utah national monuments to allow drilling and mining, despite Utah officials saying there's little energy potential at Bears Ears and companies previously found Grand Staircase-Escalante's coal deposit unprofitable during Trump's first term — so the destruction is both gratuitous and pointless. And finally, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed a one-year ban on data center construction in the state while assessing their environmental impact, which is the most rational thing anyone in government has done all week. Resources/Articles mentioned: NYT: Trump Drops Plan to Charge Ships Fees in the Strait but Will Restore Blockade: Iran War Live Updates Axios: Scoop: Trump tells Netanyahu to move forces out of Syria and Lebanon CNN: Elon Musk likely broke the law by giving voters $1 million, Wisconsin board says Axios: Kagan: Threats against SCOTUS expected to soar MS Now: New Mexico's AG says DOJ is stonewalling probe of Epstein ranch — again WaPo: Blanche to face skeptics in GOP after judge's scathing criticism WaPo: ICE halts most traffic-stop arrests in wake of fatal shootings AP News: Man fleeing immigration officers in Florida is struck and killed by tractor trailer, police say Axios: Trump cuts nearly 3M acres from 2 Utah national monuments Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
President Donald Trump signed an executive order this week to shrink two popular Utah national monuments, this time by even more than he did in 2017. The order cuts the size of Bears Ears National Monument by 91% and Grand Staircase-Escalante by more than 90%, a reduction of about 3 million acres. In this episode Steven Bloch, legal director for the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance, explains why he thinks the move might be unlawful and how his group plans to challenge it. Edited by Mike Pedersen / Eighty Five Audio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Rod and Greg Show Daily Rundown - Tuesday, July 14, 20264:20 pm: Utah Speaker of the House Mike Schultz joins Rod and Greg to discuss his conversations with President Trump as the President prepared to deliver on his promise to shrink the acreage footprint of Bears Ears and Grand-Staircase Escalante.4:38 pm: Fox News Columnist Liz Peek joins Rod and Greg to discuss her recent column about the collapse of the Democrats' affordability scandal in states where they have control of the government.6:05 pm: John Lott, President of the Crime Prevention Research Center, joins Rod and Greg today to discuss his recent piece for Real Clear Investigations about America's falling crime rate and why the U.S. is safer than most nations.6:38 pm: Just the News Energy Reporter Kevin Killough joins the show for a conversation about how Venezuela's oil policies have been reformed and production has soared with the help of President Trump.
President Donald Trump slashed the size of two national monuments in Utah Monday. The sites feature ancient cliff dwellings and scenic canyons, as well as coal and uranium deposits. As Chris Clements of KNAU reports, the move comes over the objections of tribal nations and conservation groups. President Trump issued proclamations that reduce Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante by about 90% each. At a signing event with Gov. Spencer Cox (R-UT), Trump said the reduction gives the land “back” to the people of Utah. Trump tried shrinking the monuments during his first term, but former President Joe Biden reversed the decision. Tim Peterson with the conservation nonprofit Grand Canyon Trust says the tribal nations that consider the monuments culturally significant were not consulted. “That lack of consultation represents a violation of federal trust and treaty obligations to tribes.” A survey of Utah residents commissioned by the trust in 2024 shows support for keeping both monuments at the size President Biden determined. Connecticut Justice Alliance (CTJA) Executive Director Christina Quaranta speaks in support of a state senate bill raising the age of arrest in CT and restricting the use of handcuffs on young children in March 2025. (Courtesy CTJA / Vimeo) Connecticut juvenile justice advocates want the state to halt plans for a new youth detention center, as Edwin J. Viera reports. The latest Re-entry, Goal-oriented, Individualized Opportunity to Nurture Success (REGIONS) center is slated to fulfill a 2018 law when the state's last large youth prison closed. Christina Quaranta with the Connecticut Justice Alliance says that was eight years ago and the state should invest in alternatives to incarceration instead. “Opening a new facility would be taking many steps backwards. It would be the opposite of progressive and doing what's right for young people. So, I encourage lawmakers to think about that. The barrier there, folks are like, ‘this is in state statute, this is what we have to do,' and we really need to get rid of that barrier.” In considering alternatives to incarceration, Quaranta says the state must ask young people what they need to be engaged and have the programs and services they require, but there is a disconnect between what policymakers know needs to be done and what families and communities are asking for. Given the short legislative session this year, the state was not able to address alternatives to incarceration. At the start of the session, Quaranta wanted to see lawmakers review the state Department of Corrections budget to find ways to further alternatives to incarceration for youth, but she says the state must keep investments moving forward rather than stalling. “As folks are stopping to make policy decisions, or wait for the elections to come and go, whatever the hiccup is, the dollars need to be bound and moved because it's an urgent issue.” State lawmakers made some youth justice progress in the 2025 legislative session by approving the Raise the Age law. The bill raises the age of arrest for children from 10 to 12 years old under certain circumstances this year. The law will raise the age of arrest again in 2028 from 12 to 14, and restrict the use of handcuffs on children under 14. The Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Tribal Council. (Courtesy Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) The Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation has filed a federal lawsuit against the Kansas Lottery, alleging the state is violating tribal sovereignty by selling lottery tickets and operating lottery machines on the Nation’s reservation. Tribal leaders say the lawsuit seeks to protect treaty rights and enforce the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. (Courtesy U.S. Bureau of Land Management) In California, tribal leaders continue to oppose a federal roundup of wild horses near Mono Lake. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management says the gather is needed because of drought and overgrazing, while tribal leaders argue the horses are culturally significant and want greater tribal involvement in managing the herd. The Cherokee Nation has awarded nearly $1.9 million in public health and wellness grants to dozens of organizations across its reservation. Tribal officials say the funding will support community health programs, mental health services, and wellness initiatives throughout northeastern Oklahoma. Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out today’s Native America Calling episode Tuesday, July 14, 2026 – Strengthening the tribal workforce: trade school and a new federal grant program
On this episode of This Week in Moab, we hear breaking news of the White House press event for the signing of the Executive Orders gutting Grand Staircase Escalante and Bears Ears National Monuments, and get response from Scott Braden of SUWA. Additionally, we get updates on the fire from Karl Hunt, PIO for the crew fighting the Babylon Fire in Bears Ears, as well as insights into restoration from Kara Dohrenwend of Rim to Rim Restoration.
This week in the Outdoor Minimalist public lands news briefing, we're unpacking three stories:1. At the end of June, the Forest Service proposed a rule that could limit when the public has a say in Forest Service decisions.Article that inspired the first segment: https://ourpubliclandsandwaters.substack.com/p/forest-service-moves-to-reduce-public2. New pressures form to develop the Copperwood Mine in Northern Michigan, and we cover what it could mean for Lake Superior and the Porcupine Mountains with Tom Grotewohl, founder of Protect the Porkies.3. Bears Ears & Grand Staircase-Escalante are threatened once again with upcoming Executive Orders, featuring Steve Bloch, Legal Director for the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance.Subscribe to the Outdoor Minimalist newsletter: https://www.theoutdoorminimalist.com/Links and Sources:U.S. Forest Service. Forest Service publishes proposed rule to redefine, streamline guidance. https://www.fs.usda.gov/about-agency/newsroom/releases/forest-service-publishes-proposed-rule-redefine-streamline-guidanceFederal Register. Organization Functions and Procedures; Public Notice and Comment for Standards, Criteria, and Guidance. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/07/01/2026-13281/organization-functions-and-procedures-public-notice-and-comment-for-standards-criteria-and-guidancePublic Inspection Copy of Proposed Rule. https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2026-13281.pdfThe Heritage Foundation. Project 2025: Mandate for Leadership. https://static.heritage.org/project2025/2025_MandateForLeadership_FULL.pdfProPublica. How Proposed Changes to Grazing Rules Could Limit Public Oversight. https://www.propublica.org/article/public-land-livestock-grazing-ranching-accessProtect the Porkies Campaign. https://protecttheporkies.com/Iron Mountain Daily News. EGLE extends comment period on Copperwood Mine permit. https://www.ironmountaindailynews.com/news/local-news/2026/05/egle-extends-comment-period-on-copperwood-mine-permit/ABC4 Utah. President Trump is expected to issue an executive order affecting Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante. https://www.abc4.com/news/politics/inside-utah-politics/president-trump-executive-order-grand-staircase-bears-ears/Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance. https://suwa.org/
Sources tell the Deseret News that President Trump will sign an executive order today to shrink the Grand Staircase-Escalante and Bears Ears national monuments. If it sounds familiar, you're spot on. President Trump did a similar thing in his first term. And then President Biden reversed it. And now it sounds like the reversal is going to be reversed. Ahead of the announcement this afternoon, Greg and Holly share the history of the monuments and give their thoughts on the Antiquities Act.
President Donald Trump delivers remarks at the signing of two proclamations dismantling national monuments in Utah. With the proclamations, Trump reduced the size of the Bears Ears National Monument and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. In doing so, he said he was "terminating" both monuments. Trump also eliminated the Bears Ears Commission, which had been established to recognize the role of tribal nations in managing Bears Ears. The signing took place at the White House in Washington, D.C., on July 13, 2026.
President Trump is expected to reduce Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments. Conservation groups are preparing legal challenges, while Dolores County has reduced some Ferris Fire evacuation levels.
In Episode 560 of District of Conservation, Gabriella discusses the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that legal challenges to Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monuments are subject to judicial review, regarding diminishments. Tune in to learn more!SHOW NOTESBiden's Monuments Decision Is Reviewable, Appeals Court Says Tenth Circuit Kicks Utah National Monuments Suit Back to District CourtThis Year, Congress Must Resolve to Reform the Antiquities ActFACT CHECK: Can Presidents Unilaterally Declare Large National Monuments?President Trump has the power to shrink national monuments
Earth sciences educator and geologist Christa Sadler provides a geological overview of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Willkommen zum Reisetalk mit Jan und Betty. In dieser Folge nehmen sie euch mit nach Utah und stellen weniger bekannte Highlights vor: State Parks rund um St. George, Cedar Breaks, Grand Staircase‑Escalante, The Wave, den Fish Lake mit dem 8.000 Jahre alten Pando, Mirror Lake Highway, Flaming Gorge, Bear Lake und viele versteckte National‑ und State‑Park‑Perlen.Die Hosts erzählen von persönlichen Erlebnissen, Tipps zu Aussichtsstraßen, Camping und Wanderungen sowie guten Zeitfenstern für den Besuch—ideal für alle, die Utah jenseits der berühmten Nationalparks entdecken wollen.
Passage of a measure overturning a mining ban in a Minnesota wilderness area is raising concerns among environmentalists about its possible ramifications for the Four Corners. And the ongoing drought in the Four Corners is affecting conditions at a popular tourist attraction.
In this week's public lands news briefing, we cover three main stories:1. The Trump administration has begun the process of potentially reversing federal protections for the lands surrounding Chaco Culture National Historical Park in northwestern New Mexico2. Senator Mike Lee and Rep. Celeste Maloy introduced a joint resolution to undo the Grand Staircase-Escalante management plan using the Congressional Review Act ft. Steve Bloch, the legal director for the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance3. The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the reorganization plan for the U.S. Forest Service ft. Josh Hicks, Conservation Campaigns Director at The Wilderness SocietyWe can only cover a limited number of stories in our Friday public lands news briefing, and a lot more has happened in the last two weeks concerning our public lands. So, be sure you're subscribed to our weekly newsletter at theoutdoorminimalist.com and follow up on Instagram (@outdoor.minimalist.book) for more frequent updates throughout the week. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outdoor.minimalist.book/Website: https://www.theoutdoorminimalist.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theoutdoorminimalistBuy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/outdoorminimalistListener Survey: https://forms.gle/jd8UCN2LL3AQst976------------Episodes Resources:Comment on Chaco Canyon: https://eplanning.blm.gov/Project-Home/?id=D949F582-402D-F111-8341-001DD804183BArchaeology Southwest YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/ol8-AiG6lxg?si=0G-NINyf_vtS_JmbForest Service Reorganization: https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/default/files/organizational-realignment-factsheet.pdf
Across our U.S. public lands are more than 130 national monuments, each protecting a unique natural or cultural treasure. In this episode, we're diving into ten that feel a lot like visiting a national park, but without the crowds. We share a mix of places we've visited over the years, and each one surprised us with just how much they have in terms of scenery, hiking, and overall experience. From towering rock formations and remote desert canyons to cultural sites with deep historical meaning, these monuments offer many of the same “wow” moments you expect from a national park. In this episode, we talk about: Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming and why it's always worth a stop, Grand Staircase–Escalante in Utah and its endless options for adventure, Canyon de Chelly in Arizona and one of our favorite ranger-led tours, Chiricahua National Monument and its maze of rock spires, Natural Bridges National Monument and its out-of-this-world natural beauty, Colorado National Monument as an underrated scenic gem, Bandelier in New Mexico and its fascinating cultural history, Lava Beds in California (yes, caves… again), Rainbow Bridge and its surprisingly powerful setting, and Jewel Cave in South Dakota and its incredible underground world. If you've ever felt like the national parks are getting a little too crowded, or you're just looking for new places to explore, this episode will give you a list of destinations that deserve a spot on your radar. Want more? If you enjoyed this episode, check out our recently published Substack article: 10 National Monuments That Feel Like National Parks (But Without the Crowds) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Urgent: Find your member of Congress and tell them to vote no on the Lee-Malloy resolution Episode Summary: In this timely and engaging episode of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast, we look into the ongoing legislative challenges faced by Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. In conversation with Dr. Jackie Grant, Executive Director of Grand Staircase Escalante Partners, the discussion unravels the intricacies of environmental policy, community engagement, and the unforeseen impacts of political maneuvers on public lands. This episode is a must-listen for those passionate about conservation and environmental justice. The episode sheds light on the latest efforts by Utah politicians, including Senator Mike Lee, to overturn the monument's management plan using the Congressional Review Act. Dr. Grant elaborates on the implications of such actions, emphasizing how it could cause chaos across all public lands with management plans. The discussion also highlights the socioeconomic benefits derived from the monument's existence, opposing the idea that these lands are barren and underutilized. Through a meticulous examination of the issue, the conversation underscores the vital importance of community voices and scientific reasoning in land management decisions. Key Takeaways: Congressional Review Act Impact: The recent moves by Utah legislators pose a threat not only to Grand Staircase Escalante's management plan but also to the concept of public land management nationwide. Diverse Stakeholder Engagement: The formation of the monument's current management plan involved extensive input from varied community representatives, highlighting the need for balanced perspectives in environmental policy. Economic and Ecological Significance: The Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument supports local economies through tourism and recreation while preserving diverse ecosystems and night skies. Urgency of Advocacy: Listeners are encouraged to speak out to their elected representatives to protect public land management plans from being undermined. Wider Conservation Context: This episode contextualizes Grand Staircase Escalante as a crucial link in the larger preservation corridor stretching from Moab to Mojave. Notable Quotes: "The Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument is almost 2 million acres in size… We don't really know how big a monument needs to be to protect 660 species of native bees." – Dr. Jackie Grant "If we err on the side of the bigger is more protective, then we know for sure we have protected those bees." – Dr. Jackie Grant "It seems unlikely, but in this administration, nothing's unlikely anymore." – Dr. Jackie Grant Resources: Grand Staircase Escalante Partners Headwaters Economics Report on National Monuments Grand Canyon Trust – Information on Grand Staircase Escalante BLM Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument Page Trinational Sonoran Desert Symposium Explore the urgent and profound issues featured in this informative episode of 90 Miles from Needles; The Desert Protection Podcast. Stay tuned for more remarkable insights and stories addressing the protection of these precious desert landscapes. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees more than 12 million acres in Arizona alone. And much like the rest of the West, it has public lands making up national monuments that hold value for tribes. As KJZZ's Gabriel Pietrorazio reports, President Donald Trump's pick to run BLM pledged to respect them in his confirmation hearing this week. During his first term, President Trump shrank the size of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante in Utah – only for President Joe Biden to restore them and name 10 new ones. Former U.S. Rep. Steve Pearce (R-NM) answered “yes” when asked about whether he was committed to honoring those sites by U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA), who thanked the nominee for his “great” and “short, clear, concise, and on-the-record” answer. Pearce added that “the Native Americans sometimes are overlooked from Washington and …” when Sen. Padilla interrupted with, “And not just sometimes, far too often”. Pearce then noted “We became a voice for them, and would continue to do that.” Pearce doubled down when U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) asked about Arizona's Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni, which President Biden created near the South Rim in 2023. “The Grand Canyon, it's one of the most magnificent things, frankly, in the world. So we'll do whatever we can to work with you any way that's necessary.” X̱'unei Lance Twitchell teaching pre-kindergarten students. (Courtesy Ryan Conarro) Language educators in Juneau are working to create a Master's in Teaching program for teaching Indigenous languages at the University of Alaska Southeast. It would be the first of its kind in Alaska. KTOO’s Yvonne Krumrey reports. Lingít language professor X̱'unei Lance Twitchell talked about the possible future degree program during KTOO's Juneau Afternoon. “My colleague Éedaa Heather Burge and I are collaborating to create a certificate in teaching Indigenous languages, and as we look at how our language is taught in Alaska, who teaches them, what are their qualifications? What are they permitted to do in the current school systems? And what they’re permitted to do is just not enough.” The program would be for those who want to go into teaching Alaska Native languages to all ages. There are more than 20 distinct Indigenous languages throughout the state. Twitchell said the program still has some steps ahead of it before prospective students can enroll. “This degree has to go before the Board of Regents, and so we’re very hopeful that they will see the value in it. They’ll see the need. They’ll see the demand. I think it’s maybe one of two programs that are like it, perhaps in all of North America.” Twitchell said, while Southeast Alaska Native languages have endured and continue to grow, they should still be prioritized – and with urgency – by schools and communities. “But to be able to get to that is going to take some monumental shifts in the way that we do things, which is really hard today, because one of the things that a colonial government likes to do is pretend that there’s no time, there’s no money, everything’s already spoken for.” Twitchell said this program would create more pathways for educators who can advocate for time, money, and effort to go into revitalizing Indigenous languages. He said the program would focus on the “hows” of teaching Indigenous languages: how to create schools, build programs, and what materials to use. University officials are currently reviewing the proposal. After that, it'll be up to the University of Alaska Board of Regents to decide whether to approve the program. Meda DeWitt (Tlingit) is running for governor as an independent. (Courtesy DeWitt campaign) A 17th candidate has entered the Alaska governor’s race. Alaska Public Media’s Liz Ruskin has more. Meda DeWitt is a traditional healer, drawing on her Tlingit heritage. She teaches at the University of Alaska. She is running as an independent candidate, unaffiliated with any party. “I care about our future. I care about the way that we steward our lands and want to see a state that has a thriving ecosystem and healthy communities that can live in perpetuity.” In 2021, DeWitt chaired a campaign to recall Gov. Mike Dunleavy (R-AK). The petition gathered more than 60,000 signatures but fell short of the number needed for a recall election. Her campaign website lists a wide array of priorities, from cost of living to health care to the state economy. DeWitt lives in Anchorage and has family roots in Wrangell and Yakutat, as well as relatives around the state. The August 18 primary will feature a long list of gubernatorial candidates, most running with the Republican label. In the primary, voters can choose just one. The top four candidates, of any party, will advance to the November ballot. General election voters will have the option of ranking up to four candidates. Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out today’s Native America Calling episode Friday, February 27, 2026 — Native Playlist: Cary Morin and Status/Non-Status
In this update, Chris discusses an unexpected pause in regular programming due to a recent house fire. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but smoke has damaged his family's belongings, including his extensive and cherished library collection, which includes numerous rare and out-of-print books. Amid these challenges, Chris previews an upcoming episode featuring Dr. Jackie Grant, Executive Director of the Grand Staircase Escalante Partners, who will discuss efforts to protect the national monument. Tune in next week for insightful discussions on conservation, or support the podcast through their website. Episode image is a stock photo and does not show Chris' house, thankfully. Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Critics of Utah's Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument may employ a rarely used law to dramatically change how the monument is managed.
This week on the Regional Roundup, we bring you voices from ICE protests held across the region, along with reporting on Native Americans who say they've been stopped, and in some cases detained, by immigration agents. We also look at growing concern in Indigenous communities over the possibility that Congress could overturn the current resource management plan for Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument. Plus, we hear from an Aspen athlete headed to the Winter Olympics in Italy to compete in ski mountaineering, and we wrap up the show with the story of a radio play performed by students in Telluride.
President Donald Trump is expected to reverse President Joe Biden's designation of two national monuments in California supported by area tribes. The Department of Justice issued an opinion that it is in the president's purview to do away with Chuckwalla National Monument and Sáttítla Highlands National Monument. There is additional pressure to at least reduce the side of Bears Ears National Monument and Grand Staircase Escalante as President Trump did during his first term. The changes to national monuments also come as Republicans in Congress propose selling millions of acres of federal land, some of which is important to nearby tribes. We'll get a rundown of the likely land moves and how it affects people. We'll also hear about the final piece in a land transfer to the Yurok Tribe that comprises the largest return of land to a tribe in California history. Nearly all of the Yurok's traditional land — 90% — was taken during the time known as the California Gold Rush.
President Donald Trump is expected to reverse President Joe Biden's designation of two national monuments in California supported by area tribes. The Department of Justice issued an opinion that it is in the president's purview to do away with Chuckwalla National Monument and Sáttítla Highlands National Monument. There is additional pressure to at least reduce the side of Bears Ears National Monument and Grand Staircase Escalante as President Trump did during his first term. The changes to national monuments also come as Republicans in Congress propose selling millions of acres of federal land, some of which is important to nearby tribes. We'll get a rundown of the likely land moves and how it affects people. We'll also hear about the final piece in a land transfer to the Yurok Tribe that comprises the largest return of land to a tribe in California history. Nearly all of the Yurok's traditional land — 90% — was taken during the time known as the California Gold Rush. GUESTS Joseph Mirelez (Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians), chairman of the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians Davina Smith (Diné), co-chair of the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition Matthew Campbell (Native Village of Gambell), deputy director of the Native American Rights Fund Tiana Williams-Claussen (Yurok), wildlife director for the Yurok Tribe
On today's newscast: the Trump administration looks to downsize monuments, while a coalition of tribes seeks to protect Grand Staircase-Escalante, state Republicans and Hobbs pass funding for disabled Arizonans, Secretary of State Fontes announces his campaign for reelection and more.
The Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments in Utah are once again on the list of monuments at risk of being shrunk down for mining and drilling, according to the Deseret News. Steve Bloch, legal director with The Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance, joins the show to discuss why they are opposed to this idea.
The Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments at risk of being shrunk, again No cold calls! Communication problems in 2025 Utah Speaker Mike Shultz speaks to Utah's health priorities Are tickets the best way to deter speeding? KSL Movie Show: Forced and unnecessary movie sequels and the big movie of the week!
The Washington Post is reporting that officials with the Interior Department are considering shrinking at least six national monuments in the West. According to the Post, the monuments that may see their acreage reduced dramatically include Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante in southern Utah.
This Day in Legal History: Judiciary Act of 1789On September 24, 1789, Congress passed the Judiciary Act of 1789, laying the foundation for the federal judiciary as we know it today. This landmark legislation established a three-tiered court system, consisting of district courts, circuit courts, and the U.S. Supreme Court at its pinnacle. The Act also created the position of Attorney General to represent the federal government in legal matters. One of its most critical provisions was the authorization of six justices for the Supreme Court, marking the Court's formal establishment.The Judiciary Act granted the Supreme Court the authority to hear appeals from state courts, ensuring the supremacy of federal law. Additionally, it gave lower federal courts jurisdiction over specific types of cases, including those involving the Constitution, federal laws, and treaties. Perhaps most famously, the Act's Section 25 allowed the Supreme Court to review decisions of state courts when federal issues were at stake, further centralizing federal judicial power.This Act played a pivotal role in shaping the balance of powers between the federal government and the states. It ensured that federal laws would have a uniform interpretation across the country. While it has been amended many times, the Judiciary Act of 1789 remains a cornerstone of U.S. legal history, establishing the basic framework for the judicial branch.In 2021, Eric Adams promised to reform New York City's flawed property tax system, which many blame for exacerbating housing inequality. The current system results in tax disparities, with upscale Manhattan properties often taxed at lower rates than homes in the outer boroughs. Despite Adams' campaign pledges, his administration has yet to introduce significant reforms. Instead, it has fought a 2017 lawsuit filed by Tax Equity Now New York, which argues the system unfairly burdens minority communities and renters. The lawsuit was revived in 2023, and the court ruled that the city has the authority to address these tax inequalities. Adams, however, faces a political dilemma. Any changes would likely increase taxes for many homeowners, threatening key voting blocs. Property taxes are a critical revenue source, generating $32.7 billion in the last fiscal year. City officials prefer state-led reforms, but without a strong push from Adams, the state is unlikely to act. The ongoing lawsuit may force the city to respond more directly. The next court hearing is set for October 2024, where the city will be required to submit documents explaining its tax assessments.Eric Adams Fights Legal Challenge to NYC's ‘Unfair' Property TaxAnd on the subject of NYC and the need to focus on state-based reforms, in my column this week, I discuss New York City's retreat from a proposed partnership tax, emphasizing how it reveals the limitations local governments face in tax policy. Municipalities like New York operate under state control, making meaningful tax reform at the city level nearly impossible. Even when a city attempts to innovate, its tax policies must align with state rules, or risk legal and administrative challenges. In this case, New York City's plan to depart from the state's method of taxing partnership income posed significant compliance difficulties and potential capital flight. Ultimately, the city reverted to the state's tax model, acknowledging the practical benefits of consistency. This outcome reflects broader issues cities face: compliance costs, capital mobility, and state-imposed restrictions all limit local tax initiatives. In states like Wisconsin and Colorado, further limitations on local taxation exist through caps or voter approval requirements. The core message is clear: real tax reform must happen at the state level, as municipalities lack the autonomy to make meaningful changes on their own.NYC Partnership Tax Retreat Shows Change Must Come at State LevelThe U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit heard arguments in Garfield County v. Biden, a case challenging President Joe Biden's authority to restore the boundaries of the Grand Staircase-Escalante and Bears Ears national monuments. The plaintiffs, including Utah and Garfield County, argue that the monuments, covering over 3 million acres, violate the Antiquities Act by exceeding the “smallest area compatible” for preserving historical sites. The monuments, initially designated by Presidents Clinton and Obama, were reduced in size by President Trump before Biden reinstated them in 2021.The central question before the court is whether presidential actions under the Antiquities Act can be reviewed by courts. A lower court had dismissed the case, ruling that Biden's actions were not subject to judicial review. The Tenth Circuit must now decide if courts can assess the legality of these presidential designations.The case could set a precedent on whether future presidents can use the Antiquities Act to protect vast expanses of land, affecting federal land management and resource development. The lawsuit may ultimately reach the U.S. Supreme Court, where Chief Justice John Roberts has previously expressed interest in revisiting the scope of the Antiquities Act.Biden's National Monuments Power Set for Tenth Circuit ScrutinyCaroline Ellison, former CEO of Alameda Research and ex-girlfriend of FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried, is set to be sentenced for her role in the $8 billion fraud linked to FTX's collapse. Ellison, who has pleaded guilty to seven counts of fraud and conspiracy, cooperated with prosecutors in Bankman-Fried's trial, where he was convicted and sentenced to 25 years in prison. Ellison's sentencing is expected to be more lenient, as her cooperation was deemed "extraordinary" by prosecutors, who highlighted her remorse.Ellison's cooperation involved meeting with prosecutors around 20 times to assist in building the case against Bankman-Fried, whom she testified had directed her to misuse FTX customer funds to cover losses at Alameda Research. Her testimony revealed she felt relief after the fraud was exposed, lifting a burden of lies. While Ellison could face up to 110 years in prison, her lawyers have argued for no jail time due to her extensive assistance. Two other FTX executives, Nishad Singh and Gary Wang, are also awaiting sentencing later this year.Bankman-Fried's ex-girlfriend Ellison to be sentenced over crypto fraud | ReutersTaft Stettinius & Hollister, a U.S. law firm with 925 attorneys, announced its merger with Denver-based Sherman & Howard, which has 125 lawyers across the Mountain West region. The merger, effective January 1, 2025, is part of a broader trend of law firm consolidations in 2024. This merger will bring the combined firms' projected revenue to $810 million. Taft has been expanding over the past 16 years, targeting high-growth markets like Denver and Phoenix. Sherman & Howard, facing challenges competing with larger firms, sought the merger to gain broader expertise and ensure long-term business viability. Several other law firm mergers have been announced in September, signaling increased consolidation in the legal industry.US law firm merger streak continues with Taft tie-up | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe
EELP senior staff attorney Sara Dewey speaks with Andy Mergen, Faculty Director of the Emmett Environmental Law and Policy Clinic at Harvard Law School and former chief of the Appellate Section of the Environment & Natural Resources Division at the Department of Justice. Andy and Sara discuss the origin and evolution of presidential authority to designate national monuments under the Antiquities Act, how Congress and the courts have responded to these designations over the act's 118-year history, present day legal challenges to the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments, and what could be ahead for monuments in the Supreme Court. Transcript here https://eelp.law.harvard.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/CleanLaw_EP97-final.pdf
In this episode of America's National Parks, explore the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah. Delve into its rich fossil record, uncovering the exceptional dinosaur discoveries unique to the area. Discover the park's crucial scientific contributions to understanding prehistoric climates, evolutionary patterns, and current biodiversity, including a significant bee study. Hosted by Jason Epperson Written by Lauren Eisenberg Davis Use code PARKS30 for $30 off of a $500 or more booking at www.rvshare.com.
Hear more of JB's adventures within the Grand Staircase - Escalante Nation Monument.
Undiscovered Utah is broadcasting from within the Grand Staircase Escalante Nation Monument. Listen is as JB talks about daily adventures in the Mini Series.
This Day in Legal History: Cuba Suspended from Organization of American States (OAS)Today, January 22nd, marks a significant date in legal history. On this day in 1962, the Organization of American States (OAS), an international organization founded for the purposes of regional solidarity and cooperation among its member states in the Americas, made a momentous decision regarding Cuba. Following the communist revolution in Cuba led by Fidel Castro, the OAS voted to suspend Cuba from its membership. This action was a reflection of the Cold War tensions that were prevalent during that era, as many member countries of the OAS were aligned with the United States, which opposed communist ideologies.The suspension of Cuba from the OAS was more than a symbolic gesture; it represented a significant diplomatic and political isolation of Cuba in the Western Hemisphere. It was a part of broader efforts by the United States and its allies to limit the spread of communism, particularly in the Americas. The OAS, established in 1948, was seen as a crucial platform for political discourse and policy-making in the region, and Cuba's exclusion meant a significant limitation in its diplomatic reach and influence.However, the political landscape began to shift over the years, and in a historic move, the OAS voted to reinstate Cuba on June 3, 2009. This decision came at a time when international attitudes towards Cuba were thawing, and there was a growing recognition of the need to engage rather than isolate. The vote to reinstate Cuba was seen as a step towards normalizing relations and acknowledged the changing dynamics in international politics.Interestingly, the Cuban government, led by Raul Castro, Fidel Castro's brother, rejected the offer of reinstatement almost immediately. The rejection by Cuba was indicative of the deep-seated mistrust and the residual effects of years of political and ideological conflict. Cuba's response was also a reflection of its desire to maintain its sovereignty and political ideology without perceived interference from other nations, particularly those in the Americas.The events of January 22, 1962, and the subsequent developments in 2009 highlight the complexities of international relations and the ongoing impact of historical events on contemporary politics. They underscore the evolving nature of diplomatic ties and the intricate balance between national sovereignty, ideological beliefs, and international cooperation.The U.S. Supreme Court is set to make a ruling that could limit federal agencies' regulatory powers, significantly influencing a challenge to President Biden's rule on socially conscious investing for employee retirement plans. This challenge, initiated by 26 Republican-led states, focuses on a Department of Labor rule that allows retirement plans to consider environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) factors in investment decisions. The states have requested the U.S. appeals court to delay its decision on this matter until the Supreme Court's ruling.The Supreme Court's decision revolves around the "Chevron deference," a legal precedent from 1984 that mandates judicial deference to reasonable agency interpretations of ambiguous U.S. laws. This doctrine is currently under scrutiny in a case related to overfishing monitoring. Texas-based U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk, overseeing the lawsuit against the ESG investing rule, previously found the Labor Department's interpretation reasonable, allowing plans to consider ESG factors as long as traditional financial considerations remain prioritized.However, the challenging states argue that federal law explicitly requires retirement plans to focus solely on the financial benefit of participants, negating the need for Chevron deference in this case. They suggest that the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals should await the Supreme Court's decision on Chevron deference before proceeding.Critics of ESG investing, primarily Republicans, argue that it promotes liberal agendas, potentially harming the financial interests of plan participants or shareholders. The Biden administration, defending the ESG rule, argues for the preservation of Chevron deference, highlighting the necessity for agencies to interpret ambiguous legislation.The ESG rule, established in November 2023, reversed former President Trump's restrictions on considering ESG factors, impacting plans that invest over $12 trillion for more than 150 million people. The Supreme Court's decision on Chevron deference could have far-reaching implications, potentially making it more challenging for federal agencies to defend their rules in court and indicating a broader conservative effort to reduce the powers of the "administrative state." During the Supreme Court's recent arguments, a clear majority opinion on overturning Chevron deference was not evident, with some conservative justices expressing skepticism while others showed reluctance to reverse it.US Supreme Court ruling on agency powers may impact Biden ESG investing rule | ReutersThe Tenth Circuit is currently considering a challenge by Utah to President Joe Biden's re-establishment of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments. Central to this case is the issue of judicial review regarding presidential use of the Antiquities Act for creating large national monuments. Utah, alongside two counties, appealed after their lawsuit was dismissed by Judge David Nuffer of the US District Court for the District of Utah, who ruled that Biden's actions under the Antiquities Act aren't subject to judicial review.The state argues that the vast size of these monuments, collectively covering over 3 million acres, violates the Antiquities Act's requirement for including only the “smallest area compatible” to protect antiquities. This expansion by Biden, which reversed former President Donald Trump's reduction of the monuments in 2017, has been criticized for limiting activities like drilling, mining, and logging.The Biden administration, along with environmental groups and tribes, are advocating for the appeals court to uphold the district court's dismissal of Utah's lawsuit. The Supreme Court's attention to this issue has been hinted at in a 2021 dissent by Chief Justice John Roberts, who noted the potentially limitless power of the Antiquities Act.Environmental groups argue that the Supreme Court already settled this issue in 1920, affirming President Theodore Roosevelt's use of the Act to protect the Grand Canyon. They, along with 29 law professors, contend that the challenges to the monuments are baseless and note the historical significance of these areas, dense with cultural artifacts sacred to tribes.The law professors emphasized that the Antiquities Act, which has been used by 18 presidents to establish protected areas, doesn't allow for judicial review and is a crucial piece of public land legislation. They highlight its historical use in creating significant monuments, including Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument and others by recent presidents.The Tenth Circuit's decision on whether Antiquities Act proclamations are reviewable could lead to a remand to the district court for a deeper examination of Utah's claims against the Biden administration. The outcome of this case could impact the future scope and application of the Antiquities Act in the preservation of national monuments.Biden Monument Dispute in Utah to Center on Judicial ReviewThe Florida State Bar recently adopted ethical guidelines for attorneys using artificial intelligence (AI), marking it as one of the first governing bodies to provide such guidance. These guidelines, detailed in an 18-page opinion approved by the bar's board of governors, address various aspects of AI use in legal practice, from reviewing computer-generated work to fee structures and maintaining client confidentiality.The initiative to develop these guidelines stemmed from the bar President Scott Westheimer's focus on addressing the promise and peril of AI in law. An ethics committee identified potential pitfalls of AI to offer general guidance adaptable to the increasing number of AI tools in the legal industry. Brian David Burgoon, Chair of the Board Review Committee on Professional Ethics, emphasized the significance of AI in law, noting both excitement and caution due to its potential to provide a competitive edge to practitioners who use it responsibly.Despite AI being a new technology, the ethical concerns it raises are familiar. The guidance reminds lawyers of the importance of supervising and verifying the work produced by AI, akin to the traditional oversight of law clerks and paralegals. The potential efficiency and effectiveness of AI in legal practice could lead to cost savings for clients and firms. However, the guidelines stress the need for fair pricing, drawing parallels with past rulings on other expenses and overheads.A unique challenge with AI is the risk to client confidentiality, particularly with large language models that might retain and improperly divulge client information. The guidelines advise lawyers to be vigilant and continuously analyze each AI tool's use to ensure adherence to ethical principles.The rapidly evolving nature of AI technology and its growing presence in legal practice underscore the importance of having ethical guidelines. These guidelines aim to help lawyers navigate both the advantageous tools and the potential problems AI can bring to the legal field.AI Guidance From Florida Bar Builds on Familiar Ethics RulesThe $78 billion bipartisan business break and child tax credit bill passed the House Ways and Means Committee with a 40-3 vote, signaling a rare moment of bipartisanship in Congress. Despite Republican resistance to more robust child tax credit provisions and a raised state-and-local tax (SALT) deduction cap, both parties recognized the bill as a compromise. The committee's Chair, Jason Smith (R-Mo.), praised the bipartisan vote, highlighting the potential for cross-party collaboration to deliver tax relief.As the bill moves to the House floor, members from both parties expressed a desire for a swift vote, possibly as soon as January 29 when the House returns. However, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has not indicated his support for the bill nor his plans for its presentation in the House. The bill might need to pass under suspension of the rules, which limits amendments and requires a two-thirds supermajority, but regular order could allow for further amendments from both parties.In the Senate, the situation is more complex. While Senate Democrats generally support the plan, Senate Republicans, including Senate Finance Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), have remained critical or silent. Some Senate Republicans have concerns about the cost of the child tax credit and the proposed offsets. The bill needs at least 60 votes to pass in the Senate, suggesting possible further amendments to gain Republican support.The timing of the bill's passage is crucial, as the House returns on the same date tax filing begins, January 29. IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel noted the challenges of implementing tax changes so close to the filing season but expressed confidence, as did Richard Neal, in the IRS's ability to adapt. However, National Taxpayer Advocate Erin Collins warned that changes during the filing season could disrupt the process, potentially delaying refunds and increasing IRS call volumes. Collins advocates for a provision allowing the IRS to adjust credits post-filing to avoid the need for amended returns, addressing an existing backlog issue.What's Next for the Tax Bill? Three Questions After Panel Markup Get full access to Minimum Competence - Daily Legal News Podcast at www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe
Wilderness Therapy – some praise it, others shame it. In the 1980's Steve Cartisano created the Challenger Foundation, the wilderness therapy camp that promised to reform wayward teens. It seemed like a perfect solution for concerned parents until kids claimed abuse, and others died while in camp care. Today we venture to Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument to understand how Hell Camp earned its name. We love our National Parks and we know you do too but when you're out there, remember to enjoy the view but watch your back. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe from wherever you're listening to NPAD! Become part of our Outsider family on Patreon or Apple Subscriptions to gain access to ad-free episodes, bonus content, and more. Follow our socials Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. To share a Trail Tale, suggest a story, access merch, and browse our book recommendations - head over to our website. Thank you so much to our partners, check them out! Reel: Use our link and code NPAD to sign up for a subscription to automatically get 30% off of your first order and free shipping. Acorns: Use our link to sign up for Acorns to start saving and investing for your future. Prose: Use our link for a free in-depth hair consultation and 50% off your first subscription. Plus 15% off and free shipping on all future subscription orders. Quince: Use our link to get free shipping and 365-day returns. Sources: Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare, Rolling Stone , Desert News, Variety Magazine, Outside Magazine, BLM, JSTOR Daily, Daily Mail
Hosts: Taylor Morgan and Scott Simpson We begin the show with an appeal from the Utah Attorney General's Office of the recent dismissal decision in the state's lawsuit against the president’s use of the Antiques Act in the designation of Bears Ears and the expansion of the Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments. KSL Legal Analyst Greg Skordas joins the show to discuss the details of the appeal.
Hosts: Taylor Morgan and Scott Simpson Utah Leaders Appeal Dismissal of The Antiques Act We begin the show with an appeal from the Utah Attorney General's Office of the recent dismissal decision in the state's lawsuit against the president’s use of the Antiques Act in the designation of Bears Ears and the expansion of the Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments. KSL Legal Analyst Greg Skordas joins the show to discuss the details of the appeal. SLC Airport Newest Expansion On Tuesday, the Salt Lake International Airport celebrated finishing the latest phase of their reconstruction project. Executive Director of Airports at Salt Lake City Corporation Bill Wyatt joined the show what is now open in the airport and what phases are left. How Are Utahns Feeling About the New Flag a Year Later? Nearly a year has gone by since the new state flag was adopted and it appears that there remains a little tension still out there about the new design. We take a look at a poll from the Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics on what Utah voters think of the new flag. Are Cyberattacks Increasing in the US? We are seeing an increase in cyberattacks on US businesses and government entities. We spoke to Asheesh Agarwal, Consultant, American Edge Project and U.S. Chamber of Commerce to discuss this national threat from foreign countries, and what the U.S. is doing about it. Trump’s Children To Testify In Fraud Trial For president Trump's trial in New York continues as Donald Trump Jr is expected to testify today in the Trump Organization fraud trial. We are joined by ABC News Legal Analyst Royal Oakes to discuss the latest. Political Games in Washington It seems like business as usual now in Washington D.C. We have a new speaker, there is a government shutdown looming and the political games are now resuming again. Hosts Scott and Taylor discuss what is happening in the nation's Capital. Third-Party Candidates Gaining More Popularity There are a few third-party candidates gaining popularity for the 2024 presidential election, will they be able to make a significant impact? Hosts Taylor and Scott discuss. The Conflict in Israel and Social Media We end the show by discussing how social media is impacting how some generations view and react to the war in Israel. We spoke to NewsNation National Correspondent Elizabeth Prann about her findings on this issue.
Host: Leah Murray In response to the dismissal of a lawsuit that was against expanding two national monuments, Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante, Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes has filed a notice of appeal. KSL Legal Analyst Greg Skordas joins the show to walk us through this case and discuss how far he thinks it will go.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Host: Leah Murray Are former President Donald Trump's indictments hurting or helping him? Former President Donald Trump has been indicted yet again. This is his fourth indictment since he left office, and at this point, many of you may be wondering… does it even matter anymore? Brittany Shepherd, ABC News National Politics Reporter in Washington, calls the show to explain what we should know about this particular indictment and whether his indictments are hurting or helping him. Utah Attorney General files a notice of appeal in national monuments case In response to the dismissal of a lawsuit that was against expanding two national monuments, Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante, Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes has filed a notice of appeal. KSL Legal Analyst Greg Skordas joins the show to walk us through this case and discuss how far he thinks it will go. How to find common ground as we prepare for back-to-school season Political polarization is a palpable thing in American education right now with the country being increasingly divided into two warring political camps. Superintendent Sydnee Dickson, Utah State Superintendent of Public Instruction, joins the show to explain why our back-to-school preparation should be not about political polarization, but about assuming positive intent, listening to learn, and working toward solutions together. KSL launches the Stranger Becomes Neighbor podcast One of the ways we learn about the world is through podcasts. That is how we learn what we need to know in order to be engaged in our communities. Today, KSL launched a new podcast called Stranger Becomes Neighbor in remembrance of the fall of Kabul. KSL Podcast Producer and Host of Stranger Becomes Neighbor Andrea Smardon joins Leah in the studio to share what inspired her to launch this podcast and how she came about creating it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aside from the inherent beauty of a pinon-juniper ecosystem, the health of such woodlands are tied to broader climate swings. This is the awareness that the project Sentinels hopes to bring to light. The brainchild of Todd Anderson, Bruce Crownover, and Gary Machlis, the Sentinels project uses art+science to showcase the pinon-juniper adaptation to increased aridification in the deserts of the American Southwest. From fieldwork in Grand Staircase Escalante and Bears Ears National Monuments, these fine art books contain unique art prints and prose and can be found on display at fine museums and universities.
Earlier this summer, two horsemen traveling with pack animals appeared in the northern corridor of Highway 191. As artistic silhouettes, the riders commemorate the history of the Old Spanish Trail and the cultural, social and economic situations that brought more people to the Moab area during the mid-1800s. The trail snaked roughly 1200 miles from California to New Mexico and Moab's geology provided an important river crossing. Plus, Utah is suing the Biden administration over its expansion of national monument boundaries for Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante. // Show Notes: // Photo: Stephen Schultz, president of the Canyonlands Backcountry Horsemen, with his favorite artistic silhouette. Dressed in spurs and outfitted with an embroidered blanket, Schultz says this rider truly has ‘style.' KZMU/Molly Marcello // Utah Gov Spencer Cox 8/24 Press Release on Monument Lawsuit https://governor.utah.gov/2022/08/24/utah-challenges-unlawful-designation-of-national-monuments/ // Canyonlands Backcountry Horsemen https://www.bchutah.org/bch-canyonlands.php // DOE: Commemorating the Old Spanish Trail in Moab https://www.energy.gov/em/articles/commemorating-old-spanish-trail-moab // Epicenter Green River: The Old Spanish Trail https://ruralandproud.org/epicenter_blog/ost/
National Monuments are some of our nation's most controversial lands. On April 26, 2017, President Trump signed an executive order to review twenty-seven national monuments, calling them “superstitious land grabs” and “an abusive use of the Antiquities Act,” suggesting he might reduce or abolish them completely. He went on to issue proclamations that reduced two national monuments, Grand Staircase-Escalante and Bears Ears, and shortly thereafter, President Biden reinstated the former boundaries of both monuments when coming to office, I'm Jason Epperson, and today on America's National Parks, we talk with McKenzie Long, whose book This Contested Land: The Storied Past and Uncertain Future of America's National Monuments, shares her visits to thirteen national monuments established within the last twenty-five years. Today's show was sponsored by L.L.Bean, follow the hashtag #beanoutsider, and visit LLBean.com to find great gear for exploring the National Parks. And by Campendium. Find listings and reviews for thousands of campsites for your next national park adventure at campendium.com. Make sure to follow the America's National Parks Podcast on Facebook and Instagram, and join us on the RV Miles podcast the hear our travel stories as we journey across America.
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