WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Bears Ears National Monument draft resource management plan is a model for sustainable and collaborative management of public lands that benefits wildlife, Indigenous communities, sacred landscapes, hunting, angling, and other responsible recreation. 

“The draft plan reflects a true collaboration among the five Tribes of the Bears Ears Commission, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Bureau of Land Management. It shows a strong commitment to collaborative management that provides for the conservation of wildlife habitat and protection of cultural and natural resources, while also safeguarding hunting and angling, and ensuring continued access for responsible outdoor recreation,” said David Willms, associate vice president of public lands at the National Wildlife Federation. “Once finalized, this comprehensive management plan will ensure that wildlife, Indigenous sites, and the lands and waters of Bears Ears will be enjoyed by future generations.” 

"Since time immemorial, Bears Ears has been stewarded by the Navajo Nation, Hopi Tribe, Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Ute Indian Tribe, and Pueblo of Zuni. HECHO supports the newly released draft Resource Management Plan for Bears Ears National Monument, which incorporates Traditional Indigenous Knowledge to protect the biodiversity, integrity, and health of this culturally and archeologically significant landscape," said Camilla Simon, executive director of Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors (HECHO).