Protecting Chuckwalla: California’s Outdoor Recreation Economy

California stands as a national leader in outdoor recreation, with billions of dollars pouring into the state’s economy and supporting nearly half a million jobs. This immense economic impact includes everything from backpacks and boats to hiking boots and beyond. The thriving outdoor industry reflects not only our love for nature but also our economic dependence on it. This article explores how California's outdoor recreation economy is intertwined with the protection of natural spaces and highlights the importance of safeguarding the proposed Chuckwalla National Monument.

California’s Outdoor Recreation Economy

The outdoor recreation sector in California is a powerhouse, contributing significantly to the state’s economy. With a vast landscape that invites adventure and exploration, Californians are avid consumers of outdoor gear and services. REI, a prominent player in this market, employs 2,600 people across its 30 stores and field teams in the state. As one of the largest outdoor retailers, REI's operations underscore the economic significance of outdoor recreation in California.

The strong connection between outdoor recreation and the local economy is evident. More than 15% of adults in California are members of REI, reflecting the widespread enthusiasm for outdoor activities. However, the success of this sector relies on the continued availability of pristine, accessible natural spaces. Without these wild places, the outdoor economy would falter.

The Chuckwalla National Monument Proposal

One such vital natural space is the proposed Chuckwalla National Monument, located in Riverside and Imperial Counties. Nestled within the stunning desert landscape, Chuckwalla offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities. From hiking and climbing to mountain biking and birdwatching, the area caters to a broad spectrum of outdoor enthusiasts.

The recent announcement of a new REI store in Rancho Mirage highlights the growing demand for outdoor gear and services, further emphasizing Chuckwalla’s importance. This development not only serves as a recreational hotspot but also as an economic driver for local communities. Protecting Chuckwalla is not merely about preserving a landscape; it’s about investing in the future of outdoor recreation and supporting the businesses and communities that depend on it.

The Role of National Monuments in Outdoor Recreation

National monuments and other protected areas have gained increasing popularity, especially during the pandemic, when many Americans sought refuge in the great outdoors. These spaces provided a safe and rejuvenating escape, highlighting their importance for mental and physical well-being.

REI Co-op's Outside in 5 initiative, launched nearly a year ago, aims to address disparities in access to nature and promote equitable solutions. The Chuckwalla National Monument proposal aligns with this initiative, representing a critical step towards ensuring equitable access to outdoor spaces for all.

The Case for Chuckwalla and the Antiquities Act

The push to designate Chuckwalla as a national monument is not just a business or recreational issue; it’s a matter of broader community and environmental significance. Establishing Chuckwalla National Monument through the Antiquities Act would mark a significant conservation achievement. This 1906 law allows presidents to designate federal lands, waters, and cultural sites as national monuments via a Presidential Proclamation.

Under the Biden Administration, five new national monuments have been designated, and two have been expanded, protecting over 1.6 million acres of public lands. Adding Chuckwalla National Monument would solidify the administration’s legacy as a historic advocate for public lands, marking the most extensive use of the Antiquities Act by any recent president in their first four years in office.

Need to Preserve

As we navigate the balance between growing demand for outdoor experiences and the need to preserve natural spaces, supporting the Chuckwalla National Monument proposal emerges as a crucial investment. It represents not only a commitment to protecting a vital recreational area but also a strategic move to sustain California’s outdoor recreation economy.

By advocating for Chuckwalla’s protection, we join the voices of Tribal leaders, elected officials, business owners, and community members in urging President Biden to use the Antiquities Act to designate this important site. Protecting Chuckwalla is an opportunity to secure both our natural heritage and the economic future of California’s outdoor recreation industry, ensuring that the beauty and benefits of these wild spaces continue to enrich our lives for generations to come.