Official Stewards of San Juan Response to Secretary Zinke's Review Process

San Juan County Citizens have always loved access to public lands.  We deem it of our greatest treasures!

"The Stewards of San Juan County express gratitude to Secretary Zinke and his time in reviewing and preparing a recommendation to President Trump regarding the Bears Ears National Monument. This is a day of conflicting feelings for many residents of San Juan County and Americans battling ongoing issues regarding constitutional freedoms associated with land rights. 

A massively redundant Bears Ears National Monument designated in the most obscene unilateral way without the input of local citizen stakeholders, was never the answer. The stance of the Stewards of San Juan remains a request for a rigorous review of the Antiquities Act in order to prevent such unilateral measures and further protect the rights of all people. However, we are well aware this current recommendation is a measurable victory for rural Americans and local voices. As Native Americans, locals, business owners, land owners, cattlemen, farmers, recreation enthusiasts, educators, and conservation advocates, we appreciate this administration’s efforts in providing us the voice we sorely needed in this matter. 

We move forward with a conviction to work with our elected officials, local tribes and San Juan County residents to foster a plan indicative of the hearts and minds of this community and love of this beautiful land. We recommit and restate our stance for our love and appreciation of public access to land, responsible multiple use of land, and respect for proper management of the land."

Jami Bayles, SOS president