The Bears Ears: A Human History of America's Most Endangered Wilderness

The Bears Ears National Monument in southeastern Utah contains more archaeological sites than any other region in the United States, and is at the center of the greatest environmental battle in America since the damming of the Colorado River. David Roberts, an acclaimed adventure writer, takes readers on a tour of his favorite place on earth, unfolding the rich and contradictory human history of the 1.35 million acres of the Bears Ears domain.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 18 November 2022
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

The Bears Ears National Monument, located in southeastern Utah, was established by President Obama in 2016 and subsequently reduced by the Trump administration in 2017. This region boasts an extraordinary abundance of archaeological sites, surpassing any other area in the United States. Moreover, it presents a breathtakingly picturesque landscape, characterized by a diverse array of sandstone canyons, striking mesas, and towering buttes. Unfortunately, this pristine wilderness is now facing imminent threats from oil and gas drilling, unrestricted grazing, and the encroachment of Jeep and ATV vehicles. This conservation battle ranks as one of the most significant in American history since the construction of the Colorado River dam in the 1950s to create Lake Powell.

In his captivating book, The Bears Ears, renowned adventure writer David Roberts takes readers on a captivating journey through his beloved destination. Through a seamless blend of personal memoir and meticulous archival research, Roberts unveils the intricate and multifaceted human history of the vast 1.35 million acres that comprise the Bears Ears domain. With a lyrical voice, he celebrates the outback he has explored for over two decades, painting a vivid portrait of its awe-inspiring beauty and ecological significance.

The Bears Ears National Monument holds immense cultural and historical value, housing numerous ancient artifacts and sacred sites. These include ancestral Puebloan ruins, rock art panels, and archaeological sites associated with various Native American tribes. The monument's preservation was crucial to maintaining the integrity of these cultural resources and respecting the traditions and beliefs of indigenous communities.

However, the designation of the Bears Ears National Monument sparked a contentious debate, with some arguing that it infringed on private property rights and limited economic development opportunities. The Trump administration, driven by a conservative agenda, viewed the monument as an unnecessary federal intrusion and took steps to reduce its size and scope. This decision was met with widespread opposition, including from environmentalists, Native American tribes, and outdoor enthusiasts who recognized the monument's ecological and cultural significance.

The conservation battle over the Bears Ears National Monument has become a focal point for environmental activism and advocacy. Activists have raised awareness about the threats posed by oil and gas drilling, unrestricted grazing, and recreational vehicle use, and have called for stronger protections for the wilderness. They have organized protests, rallied support, and engaged in legal battles to safeguard the monument's integrity.

Despite the challenges, there have been some positive developments in the fight to preserve the Bears Ears. In 2021, President Biden signed a bill that restored the monument's original boundaries, effectively reversing the Trump administration's reduction. This decision was a significant victory for environmentalists and tribal communities, who had been tirelessly advocating for the monument's protection.

Furthermore, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of conserving large wilderness areas and the ecological services they provide. The Bears Ears National Monument is part of a broader landscape known as the Greater Canyonlands region, which encompasses millions of acres of rugged terrain and is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. Protecting this region not only safeguards the cultural and historical heritage of indigenous communities but also contributes to the overall health and resilience of the planet.

In conclusion, the Bears Ears National Monument is a testament to the power of human imagination and the significance of protecting our natural heritage. It represents a breathtaking landscape, a rich cultural legacy, and a vital ecological ecosystem. The conservation battle over this monument has been a long and complex journey, but it has highlighted the importance of preserving large wilderness areas and the critical role they play in sustaining our planet. As we continue to face environmental challenges, it is essential that we continue to support and advocate for the protection of our natural world.

Weight: 314g
Dimension: 211 x 140 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781324035961