According to The Oregonian, "The Owyhee Canyonlands represent the largest intact, unprotected natural expanse in the contiguous United States. Currently, only 5% of the Owyhee is permanently protected, leaving vast stretches and the hundreds of native species that call the land home vulnerable. Mining threatens to scar the landscape indefinitely and spoil the soil and water. More people are moving to the West, and Boise, one of the fastest-growing urban areas in the country, is within an hour’s drive of the Owyhee Canyonlands, increasing the need for improved recreation management on public lands. By protecting the Owyhee Canyonlands, we have the chance to manage and preserve an expansive, natural wonder before it suffers irreparable damage and degradation."

The Biden-Harris Administration is in the unique position of being able to act boldly as we approach the end of the term. They have shown leadership in preserving lands and our coastal waters as a part of their commitment to set aside 30% of national lands and waters by 2030. These efforts have promoted biodiversity and helped the climate, with the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary being the most recent example.

The Oregonian reports that there is widespread agreement around protecting the Owyhee Canyonlands, but despite years of work, protections are not yet in place. Let's do what we can to support the Biden Administration in these critical efforts to protect this important land.