Islanders for the San Juan Islands National Monument

History of the Monument

This page captures the story of the advocacy for creation of the San Juan Islands National Monument as well as media coverage from its first five years. Note: Over the years many of the articles linked from this archive are no longer found at their original web addresses. We are aware of this issue and may remove all the out-of-date links in the future.

The lands in the San Juan Islands National Monument are national treasures that are passionately cared for by a dedicated local community. Below is the story of how those lands gained protection as a national monument. While the Islanders for the San Juan Islands National Monument led the charge, the effort was founded on broad community support.

The Beginning

When the BLM designated Iceberg Point and Point Colville as Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs) in June 1990, they reported that "Over ten years ago public lands under the jurisdiction of BLM on Iceberg point and Point Colville were proposed for disposal."¹ The proposed "disposal" of these treasured lands was met with public outcry and the land was saved, for the time being. The BLM managed the lands as de-facto Natural Areas with no formal designation until a public planning process began in 1987 which led to the ACEC designations.

Separately, in March of 1989, the Lopez Island community came together and gathered 600 signatures in 10 days on a petition requesting a moratorium on logging 120 acres of Washington State Department of Natural Resources land on Chadwick Hill. A group of volunteers called The Friends of Chadwick was formed. Having built a supportive relationship with BLM, the community began a ten year campaign to acquire and conserve Chadwick Hill and Watmough Bay as additions to the BLM land at Point Colville. This was largely accomplished through a series of Land and Water Conservation Fund acquisitions between 1992 and 1999². Conservation acquisitions by the San Juan County Land Bank and the San Juan Preservation Trust have continued conservation in the area into the 21st century³.

In 2009 a few of the original Friends of Chadwick members learned that more secure long-term protection was now possible through Conservation Lands status and the legislative designation of a National Conservation Area. They also recognized that while the BLM owned and managed a total of about 1000 acres in the San Juan Islands, only the 450 acres in the ACECs were under a conservation management plan. More people were brought into the effort and that group soon reached out to the entire community for help.

Islanders for the San Juan Islands National Monument (formerly Islanders for the San Juan Islands Conservation Area) began as that core group of island residents. As visitors, neighbors and stewards of these lands we saw their popularity increase over the years. We also watched while other public lands have been sold off by government agencies or local island groups have scrambled to protect public lands threatened with sale.

Our goal wasn't change. It was stability. We want to ensure that our children and grandchildren will enjoy the same wonderful archipelago that we have been privileged to enjoy.

Below is some of the media coverage that tells the story of how a small group of caring people engaged an entire community and achieved the protection of these lands.

Foreshadowing

In 2010, before the Islanders for the San Juan Islands National Monument began public outreach and unknown to us, the BLM lands in the San Juan Islands were mentioned in a leaked site under consideration by the Obama administration. Nothing developed directly from this, but did attract local attention.

Journal of the San Juans: 'Monument' would foster conservation (March 18, 2010)

Early Outreach

In 2010, before we started gathering endorsements for a Conservation Lands designation, we were aware that many people in our community took these public lands for granted. Not only did people presume that they were permanently protected, but they were not aware which lands were managed by the BLM. To remedy that situation, we worked with the local newspapers to run a number of articles describing the lands and their management. This was the first time many people in the county heard of a National Conservation Area (NCA). At the same time, the BLM started public discussions for a Resource Management Plan process, which we encouraged the public to participate in.

Since a National Conservation Area designation would require congressional legislation, we began working with Representative Larsen, who visited Lopez Island to meet with NCA supporters in August, 2010.

Knowing that we would need the support of the County Council, we began presentations at their public meetings in the summer of 2010 and secured their unanimous support in November.

Meeting with Interior Secretary Salazar - April 2011

In April 2011, over a year after our first local press coverage, we hit the big time. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar held a public meeting in Anacortes. He listened well and spoke highly of the community-driven approach we were pursuing. He offered to help us pursue an NCA designation.

Salazar also asked the Interior Department agencies with lands in the islands (BLM, the National Park Service, and the Fish and Wildlife Service) to work collaboratively with each other and with local groups to help move conservation forward more effectively in the islands. That mandate, formalized in a memo in June, resulted in several good joint working sessions in the islands in 2011 and 2012 which have expanded into a Terrestrial Managers working group of many of the agencies and organizations that manage conervation lands in the San Juans.

Secretary Salazar's visit was preceded by a visit to Lopez Island by Marcilynn Burke, the Deputy Director of BLM, who had a chance to hike some of the lands with us.

Seattle Times: San Juan County seeks land protection (April 27, 2011)

"The vibrancy and enthusiasm of the local community is what inspires me to work with them toward what they want to accomplish," he said.
Salazar plans to form a committee, headed by an official from the bureau, to achieve the designation.

Go Skagit: Interior Secretary meets with residents about protecting San Juan Islands (April 27, 2011)

Seattle PI: Feds will protect San Juan Islands - if locals want (April 27, 2011)

Salazar met Wednesday with local activists seeking to preserve natural habitats in the islands, saying afterward: “They’re a template for (local) conservation around the country.”

Go Anacortes: Interior Secretary stops here to discuss conservation area (April 27, 2011)

Kitsap Sun: Interior Secretary Salazar visits Wash. (April 27, 2011)

Salazar commended Gov. Chris Gregoire for innovative conservation efforts in Washington state and he says Washington is setting a good example of 21st Century conservation for other states.

Anacortes Now: Interior Secretary stops here (April 28, 2011)

"This is just the beginning of a dialogue with our partners in the northwest," Salazar said. "It is important that we build consensus from the ground up as our nation develops a 21st century conservation agenda."

BullWings: Wilks Speak at Land Management Meeting with Interior Secretary Salazar (April 28, 2011)

The Island Guardian: Locals Meet With Secretary Of Interior In Support Of National Conservation Area(April 28, 2011)

Reading the Washington Landscape (blog): National Conservation Area and San Juan Islands (May 3, 2011)

Summer of 2011

We spent the summer of 2011 gathering local support for a National Conservation Area designation. We were a regular fixture at several of the local Farmers Markets and special events such as the San Juan County Fair, the Orcas Library Fair and the Tour de Lopez bike ride. We collected endorsement postcards from scores of local citizens to forward to Congress. We also met with local organizations ranging from the Lopez Lions Club to the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau with our story and gained their endorsements. We also received, in July, the support of the Skagit County Board of Commissioners.

In July, Senator Cantwell and Representative Larsen held a community listening session hosted by State Senator Kevin Ranker to explore our request for legislation designating these lands as Conservation Lands.

Pursuing Secretary Salazar's push for better collaboration, BLM, The National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service held a joint listening session in Friday Harbor on August 25.

The BLM continued their Resource Management Plan outreach with a meeting in Friday Harbor on August 27.

We took advantage of the BLM officials visiting the islands to hold a public meeting on the NCA proposal on Lopez Island on August 28. Speakers included several supporters from the community, Daniel Picard (BLM's District Manager from Spokane), and Brian O'Donnell (Executive Director of the Conservation Lands Foundation).

Islands Sounder: Bureau of Land Management properties could become a National Conservation Area (June 9, 2011)

Department of Interior Press Release: Interior Explores Ideas for Enhancing Conservation of Washington's San Juan Islands (June 17, 2011)

“On my recent travels to Washington State, I heard from local residents, tribal leaders, and county commissioners about their desire to better protect the lands we manage in the San Juan Islands,” Secretary Salazar said. “The enthusiasm and support that the local community expressed for protecting the San Juans is inspiring and Interior should do all it can to support these efforts – including efforts by Members of Congress – to help build a proud legacy for the area’s residents and visitors to enjoy."

Senator Maria Cantwell Press Release: Cantwell, Larsen Back Effort to Protect Land on San Juan Islands (June 17, 2011)

"A National Conservation Area designation will help ensure long-term protection of these natural treasures, keep them accessible and in the public domain, and better managed to accommodate heavier visitor use. The legislation will not have a cost to the federal government or taxpayers."

The Island Guardian: Cantwell, Larsen Back Effort To Protect Land In County (June 18, 2011)

The Whidbey Examiner: Cantwell, Larsen support San Juan Islands protection (June 20, 2011)

Journal of the San Juans: Protecting BLM lands needs community support (PDF) (June 22, 2011)

Islands Sounder: Department of Interior explores new ways to enhance BLM properties in the San Juans (June 29, 2011)

Journal of the San Juans: Cantwell, Larsen to host forum on BLM land, attend hospital groundbreaking ceremony (July 22, 2011)

The Island Guardian: Cantwell & Larsen Will Support National Conservation Area (July 25, 2011)

Islands Sounder: Cantwell, Larsen hear community feedback on effort to protect local land (July 26, 2011)

The Island Guardian: Cantwell On National Conservation Area (July 26, 2011)

“I share the local community's desire to ensure the permanent protection and accessibility of the San Juan Islands’ natural beauty as visitor traffic continues to increase,” said Senator Cantwell. “We appreciated hearing from the community on protecting cherished San Juan lands and look forward to moving forward on a bill that incorporates their feedback. I applaud the hard work of the many stakeholders involved in moving this effort forward. Through our efforts we will work to ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy these special parts of the San Juan Islands."

KPLU Radio: Campaign to protect precious lands in San Juan Islands (July 28, 2011)

Reading the Washington Landscape (blog): Sam Crawford Proposed Supporting National Conservation Area Designation for BLM Lands in Whatcom County (August 5, 2011)

The Island Guardian: U.S. Sec. of Interior Hears Support for BLM of SJC (August 18, 2011)

Legislation is Introduced - September 2011

In September 2011, just days after receiving the unanimous support of the Whatcom County Council, we reached a major milestone in our efforts with the introduction of bills in both the House and Senate which would designate these lands as a National Conservation Area. We are very grateful to Representative Larsen and Senator Cantwell who sponsored the legislation.

The Congressional Record - Senate: Senator Cantwell's remarks (PDF) (September 14, 2011)

Senator Maria Cantwell Press Release: Cantwell, Larsen Introduce Legislation to Protect Land on San Juan Islands (September 15, 2011)

"This bill will ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the natural treasures in the San Juan Islands."

San Juan Islander: Cantwell, Larsen Introduce legislation to create National Conservation Area in SJC (September 15, 2011)

Conservation Lands Foundation: Legislation introduced to protect the San Juan Islands (September 19, 2011)

The Island Guardian: Fed lands Protection Moves Forward (September 16, 2011)

Journal of the San Juans: National Conservation Area for the San Juans in congressional hands (September 20, 2011)

Islands Sounder: National Conservation Area for the San Juans in congressional hands (September 20, 2011)

KGMI 790 Bellingham: PM Bellingham for 9/22/11 [minutes 4 through 9] (September 22, 2011)

"Crown Jewel" Status - November 2011

In the fall of 2011, at Representative Larsen's request, a number of local organizations sent letters to Representative Hastings (Washington State delegate from Yakima who heads the House Natural Resources Committee) requesting a hearing on our legislation.

In November 2011 Interior Secretary Salazar sent a report to Congress listing 18 land conservation efforts across the nation that were "crown jewels" of our public lands and had "significant local support for congressional protection." The BLM lands in the San Juan Islands were highlighted in that report which garnered national press.

We continued our local public education about these amazing lands with a great hour-long radio special on Iceberg Point carried on the Lopez Island community radio station KLOI.

Reading the Washington Landscape (blog): Whatcom County Council Supports San Juan Island National Conservation Area (September 28, 2011)

Islands Sounder: Upcoming San Juan Islands conservation meeting (October 31, 2011)

The News Tribune: Obama administration wants to protect San Juan Islands (November 10, 2011)

Los Angeles Times: Battle brewing over expanding wilderness protections in the West (November 10, 2011)

Conservation Lands Foundation: Support for Administration's lands conservation agenda (November 10, 2011)

The Olympian: Obama team wants to protect San Juan Islands (November 10, 2011)

GoSkagit.com: San Juan Islands included in Obama administration proposal for 18 new wilderness protections (November 10, 2011)

Seattle Times: New wilderness and conservation areas proposed, including San Juan Islands (November 10, 2011)

Bellingham Herald: Obama team wants to protect San Juan Islands (November 10, 2011)

Islands Sounder: Salazar includes San Juans among 18 backcountry areas deserving Congressional protection as Conservation Lands or Wilderness (November 10, 2011)

Senator Maria Cantwell Press Release: Cantwell, Larsen Hail Interior Secretary's 'Crown Jewel' Designation for San Juan Islands (November 10, 2011)

"This locally-driven plan will ensure these cherished lands remain protected, accessible to the public, and better managed to accommodate continued visitor use and enjoyment."

Congressman Rick Larsen Press Release: Cantwell, Larsen Hail Interior Secretary's 'Crown Jewel' Designation for San Juan Islands (November 10, 2011)

"The San Juan Islands should be preserved for not only residents and visitors today, but for future generations," said Larsen.

Department of Interior Press Release: Salazar Highlights 18 Backcountry Areas Deserving Congressional Protection as Conservation Lands or Wilderness (November 10, 2011)

Seattle PI: Feds: Protect pristine lands in San Juan Islands (November 13, 2011)

Seattle Times: Congress can protect two of Washington's treasures (November 13, 2011)

"Two nuggets of good news about protecting beloved landscapes in Washington state run counter to the durable clichés about a do-nothing Congress and a volatile failure of bipartisanship."

KGMI 790 Bellingham: Cantwell, Larsen Hail 'Crown Jewel' Designation For San Juans (November 14, 2011)

Cascadia Weekly: Help Is On The Way: New state and federal energies directed to saving the Salish Sea(November 16, 2011)

U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell and Rep. Rick Larsen hailed the inclusion last week of the San Juan Islands on Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar’s list of “Crown Jewel” federal lands that deserve permanent protection.

The Spokesman-Review: Obama administration urges new wilderness protections (November 18, 2011)

The News Tribune: San Juans in report calling for protection (November 20, 2011)

Bellingham Herald: San Juans in report calling for protection (November 20, 2011)

Reading the Washington Landscape (blog): Doc Hastings and San Juan Island National Conservation Area Proposal (November 20, 2011)

The Olympian: San Juans in report calling for protection (November 20, 2011)

Journal of the San Juans: United States Secretary of Interior Ken Salazar backs protection of SJ's in DC(November 21, 2011)

The Spokesman-Review: Region's wilderness high on Obama's list (November 27, 2011)

KLOI 102.9: Living on Lopez: Iceberg Point (November, 2011)

The Columbian: In Our View: Victories for Nature (December 5, 2011)

Town Hall with Secretary Salazar and Senator Cantwell - February 2012

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and Senator Maria Cantwell held a Town Hall on February 18 to discuss the efforts to achieve permanent protection of the San Juan BLM lands. The press estimates over 150 people were there. The public expressed deep connections to the lands, a desire for them to remain natural and accessible, and a strong need for community involvement in managing the lands.

Secretary Salazar offered to propose to the President that these lands achieve their Conservation Land designation via a presidential proclamation rather than wait for the uncertain legislative process.

The BLM also reported on the secretary's earlier call for greater collaboration between conservation agencies in the islands, highlighting the first "Terrestrial Managers Workshop" on San Juan Island, in January 2012, which convened federal, state, county, non-profit and private conservation groups working in the islands to share ideas for working together.

Lopez Rocks: Permanent Protection for BLM Lands in The San Juans (February 15, 2012)

Orcas Issues: Meeting for BLM Lands in the San Juan Archipelago (February 15, 2012)

Salish Sea Communications: Community-led Protection of the San Juans (February 15, 2012)

Go Anacortes: Secretary Salazar hosts town hall on protecting San Juan Islands (February 16, 2012)

The Island Guardian: Cantwell & Secretary Salazar Host Town Hall - Saturday in Anacortes - on Future of SJ Islands' Federal Land (February 16, 2012)

San Juan County Republican Party: Secretary Salazar to Visit Washington State, Host Town Hall on Future of San Juan Islands with Senator Cantwell (February 16, 2012)

Journal of the San Juans: Town Hall: Cantwell, Salazar focus on San Juans conservation area (February 16, 2012)

San Juan Islander: Sec. of Interior and Cantwell in Anacortes Feb. 18 for public meeting re SJ National Conservation Area (February 16, 2012)

San Juan Island Update: Our US Senator & Interior Secretary are in Anacortes this weekend... (February 16, 2012)

The Bellingham Herald: Interior Secretary Salazar plans to visit Anacortes (February 16, 2012)

Tri-City Herald: Interior Sec. Salazar plans Saturday visit to state (February 16, 2012)

The News Tribune: Interior secretary to discuss San Juans conservation area Saturday (February 16, 2012)

Department of Interior Media Advisory: Secretary Salazar to Visit Washington State, Host Town Hall on Future of San Juan Islands with Senator Cantwell (February 16, 2012)

KGMI 790 Bellingham: Federal Official Visits Anacortes (February 17, 2012)

Department of Interior Press Release: Secretary Salazar, Senator Cantwell Hear Broad Support for Proposed San Juan Islands Conservation Area at Town Hall (February 18, 2012)

Anacortes Now: Large turnout for conservation area town hall (February 18, 2012)

The Olympian: Salazar, Cantwell push to protect San Juan Islands (February 18, 2012) [link no longer active]

Seattle Times: Salazar, Cantwell push to protect San Juan Islands (February 18, 2012)

The above Seattle Times and Olympian articles are from the Associated Press, whose coverage also made The Columbian, The Bellingham Herald, The Tri-City Herald, komonews.com and many other outlets around the country and the world.

San Juan Islander: Photo of the Day (February 20, 2012)

Journal of the San Juans: Permanent protection of federal land benefits the San Juans | Letters (February 21, 2012)

Journal of the San Juans: Officials still looking at making local lands federally protected (February 27, 2012)

Islands Weekly: Officials still looking at making local lands federally protected (February 27, 2012)

San Juan Islander: NCA or National Monument? One will protect sooner (February 29, 2012)

A Second Path Opens - March 2012

The Islanders for the San Juan Islands NCA decided to pursue Secretary Salazar's offer of a presidential proclamation as a second path to our goal of permanent protection for the BLM lands in the islands assuming that the proclamation was based on the legislation that Rep. Larsen and Sen. Cantwell introduced.

A contingent of three islanders traveled to D.C. and met with staff in the offices of every member of the Washington State delegation - both House and Senate. They also met with several senior leaders as the BLM, including Director Bob Abbey. They heard broad support for the effort, signs of progress in the Senate, little chance of progress in the gridlocked House, and strong support from the senior levels of BLM and the Department of Interior.

We met with the San Juan County Council on March 20th to report on progress and ask the council to accept Secretary Salazar's offer of a presidential proclamation based on the legislation. The council put off that decision until their April 3rd meeting. Many citizens sent letters to the council and some letters to the editor in support of this motion.

The NCA bill in the Senate (S. 1559) had a subcommittee hearing on March 22nd, which went well and generated some local press. The Deputy Director of the BLM testified in support of the bill. His written testimony is available here.

Stone Soup Stories: Volunteer Monitors Protect Treasured Lopez Lands - For Now and For the Future(Spring, 2012)

Stone Soup Stories: Lopez Island Conservation Corps Takes it Outside (Spring, 2012)

Stone Soup Stories: 2 Girls, 1 Island, 1 Incredible Story (Spring, 2012)

Our Newsletter: Four Great Talks on Salish Landscapes. Starts Tuesday! (March 12, 2012)

Our Newsletter: San Juan County Council Discussing NCA Tuesday! (March 18, 2012)

Lopez Rocks: Let's Permanently Protect BLM Lands in the San Juans Now! (March 21, 2012)

San Juan Islander: View March 22 US Senate Hearing online: Cantwell's bill designating 1k SJC acres as NCA (March 21, 2012)

San Juan Islander: Cantwell Pushes for Ongoing Citizen Input in Effort to Protect Federal Land on San Juan Islands (March 22, 2012)

Islands Weekly: Support for protection of BLM Lands | Letters (March 22, 2012)

Orcas Issues: Letter to the Editor: Let's Permanently Protect BLM Lands in the San Juans Now! (March 22, 2012)

KPLU: Senate holds hearing on protection for San Juans' public lands (March 22, 2012)

Senator Maria Cantwell Press Release: Cantwell Pushes for Ongoing Citizen Input in Effort to Protect Federal Lands on San Juan Islands (March 22, 2012)

The Island Guardian: Cantwell's Pushes To Preserve 1,000 Ac of Fed's Land in SJC (March 23, 2012)

San Juan Islander: What does NCA designation do? (March 23, 2012)

Northwest Public Radio: Senate Holds Hearing On Protecting San Juans' Public Lands (March 23, 2012)

San Juan Islander: Support BLM/NCA designation by Susan Vernon (March 24, 2012)

We have a great opportunity at hand. Many years from now we - and our descendants - can look back with a great deal of pride to the fact that islanders with varying philosophies came together to protect precious and important parts of our beloved landscape and its wildlife, our history, our culture, our community, and our future - a fine legacy, indeed.

Islands Weekly: Permanently protect BLM lands in San Juans now | Letters (March 26, 2012)

Islands Sounder: Support for BLM land protection | Letter (March 26, 2012)

Islands Weekly: Islanders make Washington D.C. trip seeking public lands protection (March 26, 2012)

Our Newsletter: San Juan County Council Needs More Proof (March 26, 2012)

Journal of the San Juans: Conservationists calls on council to back protection for BLM lands (March 27, 2012)

Islands Sounder: Islanders make Washington D.C. trip seeking public lands protection | Guest column(March 27, 2012)

Seattle Times: Protect Public lands in the San Juans (and elsewhere) for future generations (March 27, 2012)

KUOW: 1,000 Acres Up For Conservation In The San Juan Islands (March 28, 2012)

Declaring the land a National Conservation Area would not infringe on private property nearby. It would prevent the thousand acres from being sold for development and would also provide funding for land management.

Orcas Issues: Letter to the Editor: Council Urged to Recommend BLM Lands for Nat'l Conservation Area(March 28, 2012)

San Juan Islander: BLM land council decision 11:15 a.m. April 3 (April 2, 2012)

San Juan Islander: Islanders Make Washington D.C. Trip Seeking Public Lands Protection (April 2, 2012)

San Juan Islander: Editorial: Distract to avoid discussion of the facts (April 2, 2012)

Our Newsletter: Attend (in FH or Lopez/Orcas Library) - San Juan County Council meeting today! (April 3, 2012)

Support for a National Monument - Spring 2012

On April 3, 2012, the San Juan County Council unanimously voted to endorse Secretary Salazar's proposal of a presidential proclamation protecting these lands as a National Monument. They joined hundreds of supporting groups and individuals including the Skagit County Board of Commissioners and the Samish Indian Nation in supporting this second path. By the end of April, Washington's Governor Christine Gregoire had also written a letter to Interior Secretary Salazar supporting the dual track approach.

We continued our public education efforts, sponsoring the Salish Landscapes series of talks on Lopez Island.

May brought strong editorial endorsements in the Seattle PI and the Journal of the San Juan Islands. The San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau wrote to the administration in support of our efforts, and Asha Lela received a local environmental leadership award for chairing this effort.

June began with a letter from 156 local businesses asking President Obama to help.

Our Newsletter: San Juan County Council Unanimously Endorses Presidential Path (April 3, 2012)

San Juan Islander: One giant step closer to permanent protection for BLM land in SJC (April 3, 2012)

In an unanimous vote San Juan County Council agreed to send a letter to Secretary of Interior Ken Salazar asking him to ask President Barack Obama to sign a proclamation creating San Juan National Monument.

Salish Sea Communications: San Juan County Council Says "Yes!" To BLM Lands Protection (April 3, 2012)

San Juan Island Update: Around the island, this week.... (April 4, 2012)

Orcas Issues: Council Approves National Monument Designation for BLM Lands (April 5, 2012)

Islands Sounder: Conservation effort gets county council boost (April 9, 2012)

Islands Weekly: Conservation effort gets county council boost (April 9, 2012)

KBKW: Washington Vying for New National Monument (April 16, 2012)

Public News Service: A New National Monument for WA? (April 16, 2012)

Seattle PI: San Juan Islands on federal protection list (slideshow - no date listed)

Seattle PI: Gregoire to Obama admin.: Protect San Juans (May 1, 2012)

Voicing her “ardent support” to protect key federal holdings in the San Juan Islands, Gov. Chris Gregoire indicates she would support action by President Obama if Congress continues to dawdle.

Seattle PI: Obama: Take our money but give us a monument (May 3, 2012)

Journal of the San Juans: Editorial: A slam dunk (May 9, 2012)

Our Newsletter: Vote in National Monument Poll. Next: All eyes on Obama (May 11, 2012)

Islands Sounder: 'Good Stewards' receive recognition for island stewardship (May 17, 2012)

Washington Wilderness Coalition: Get to Know Your BLM Lands (May 22, 2012)

The effort to protect BLM lands in the San Juan Islands started with grassroots work from the local community. Their enthusiasm and dedication is inspiring, and a reminder that the voices of small communities with big visions can be heard.

San Juan Island Update: The stewards of the island, with thanks.... (May 23, 2012)

Seattle PI: San Juan Islanders tell Obama: Move on Monument (June 4, 2012)

Friday Harbor Now: Protect the San Juan Islands (June 4, 2012)

Islands Sounder: Business owners support national monument movement (June 6, 2012)

Islands Weekly: Business owners support national monument movement (June 6, 2012)

"The recreational opportunities provided by these public lands attract the residents and visitors that keep our businesses vibrant," said Brent Snow, Roche Harbor Resort General Manager.

Orcas Issues: San Juan Businesses urge President to Declare National Monument (June 7, 2012)

Journal of the San Juans: BLM veteran Mottice named director of Washington, Oregon region (June 9, 2012)

Congressional and Grassroots Efforts - Summer 2012

Representative Larsen kicked off the summer by writing a letter asking the administration to move forward with a monument designation.

The combined efforts of Environment Washington and the Dave Matthews Band generated over 2,000 additional letters from individuals to the administration.

The Sierra Club sent an action alert in July to its members in Washington which generated over 3,000 emails to President Obama - a state record for the club.

The Washington Tourism Alliance sent a letter in support of our efforts citing the economic benefits of the landscape. We hosted a visit to the BLM lands with some of Congressman Larsen's staff and regional leadership from the Bureau of Land Management. We had a booth at the San Juan County Fair in Friday Harbor which was visited by Senator Maria Cantwell and State Senator Kevin Ranker among many others - both locals and visitors.

Having started the summer with a letter from Representative Larsen to the administration, we finished with a letter from Senators Cantwell and Murray expressing their support for a national monument designation.

Seattle PI: Larsen to Obama: Get moving on Monument (June 11, 2012)

“Partisan opposition to the movement of any public lands legislation” has blocked its passage in Congress, Larsen told Salazar.

Congressman Rick Larsen Press Release: Larsen: Designate National Monument in San Juan Islands (June 11, 2012)

Journal of the San Juans: Larsen joins chorus calling for San Juans National Monument status (June 12, 2012)

Larsen's letter to Salazar joins similar letters from local citizens, businesses, the San Juan County Council, the Skagit County Board of Commissioners and Governor Christine Gregoire urging President Obama to issue an executive order under the Antiquities Act to preserve nearly 60 small sites and islands, including three lighthouses, in the archipelago of the San Juan Islands.

Islands Sounder: Rep. Larsen asks for presidential designation of national monument in the islands (June 12, 2012)

Our Newsletter: Big numbers support a San Juan Islands National Monument (June 16, 2012)

Seattle PI: Protection for "Wild Olympics": Dicks, Murray (June 21, 2012)

KCET: In Defense of the Antiquities Act (July 5, 2012)

Seattle PI: Time for Cantwell, Murray to ask: What's up, Doc? (July 6, 2012)

Seattle PI: President Obama and Patos Island (July 20, 2012)

Seattle PI: 1st Dt. forum: GOP's Koster on-game and ready (July 25, 2012)

DelBene said she supports having President Obama designate 955 acres of federal land in the San Juan Islands - including several famous beauty spots - as a national monument.

Seattle PI: Cantwell/Salazar: Why no movement on monument? (August 3, 2012)

Bellingham Herald: Backs protection for San Juan Islands (August 8, 2012)

The Reflector: Preservation of San Juan Islands essential to economy (August 8, 2012)

Everett Herald: Obama needs to act, now (August 12, 2012)

Orcas Issues: New Support for Islands' National Monument Status (August 17, 2012)

San Juan Islander: New Support for National Monument Status (August 17, 2012)

Washington Tourism Alliance (WTA) has joined 150 local businesses, the San Juan County Council, League of Women Voters, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen, Governor Christine Gregoire, the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau, Islanders for the San Juan Islands National Conservation Area and other community leaders in encouraging permanent protection for 955 acres of Bureau of Land Management public-lands in the islands through presidential proclamation as a National Monument.

Islands Weekly: Cantwell back to the beginning (August 20, 2012)

Pressed whether she’s done everything she could to convince the president to sign that order, Cantwell said she’d done everything but “get a tattoo” to show the president she supported the idea.

Journal of the San Juans: Cantwell rekindles earlier campaign success at San Juan County Fair (August 21, 2012)

Senator Kevin Ranker eNews: San Juan Islands National Monument is a Regional Opportunity (August 22, 2012)

Reading the Washington Landscape (blog): Update on San Juan Islands NCA or Will it be a National Monument? (August 22, 2012)

The Island Guardian: Cantwell & Murray Ask Obama To Declare SJC BML (sic) Lands A National Monument (August 28, 2012)

Continued outreach toward a National Monument - Fall 2012

The San Juan County Economic Development Council voted in September to endorse the effort to protect the BLM lands in the San Juan Islands. Two national monument designations elsewhere by President Obama generated additional editorial interest in a monument here.

Environment Washington seized on Senator Cantwell's quote about doing everything short of getting a tattoo to show her support for a monument. They worked with a local artist to create a temporary tattoo that they distributed throughout the Puget Sound area and posted hundreds of photos of tattooed supporters on the Department of Interior's Facebook page.

Supportive op-eds were run by the Seattle Times and by the Puget Sound Business Journal in October.

Islands Sounder: County council to submit state, federal legislative priorities (September 12, 2012)

Our Newsletter: Progress Update on National Monument Designation (September 8, 2012)

Islands Weekly: County council to submit state, federal legislative priorities (September 13, 2012)

Northwest Progressive Institute: Colorado gets new national monument thanks to President Obama; will Washington be next? (September 21, 2012)

By creating a San Juans National Monument, President Obama could ensure that some of our state’s most beautiful shoreline is preserved for future generations.

Seattle PI: Colorado gets monument: What about us? (September 21, 2012)

Crosscut.com: San Juans monument debate shows islands' fault lines (September 21, 2012)

Friday Harbor Now: Chimney Rock Press Could Help Protect the San Juans (September 22, 2012)

Seattle PI: The Obama campaign: Admission required (September 25, 2012)

Seattle PI: Put on a tattoo for the San Juans (September 27, 2012)

Seattle PI: Seldom-seen Cantwell in rare public appearance (September 28, 2012)

San Juan Islander: Citizens don tattoos to show support for National Monument status for SJ islands(September 28, 2012)

Friday Harbor Now: Hundreds of Washingtonians Rally Behind Week of Action to Support San Juan Islands National Monument (September 29, 2012)

Environment Washington: Congressman Larsen Gets Tattoo for San Juans (September 29, 2012)

The Island Guardian: Private State Advocacy Group Supports National Monument (October 1, 2012)

Seattle PI: Obama: A monument in California, nothing here (October 1, 2012)

San Juan Islander: Cattle Point (October 1, 2012)

Biologically rich habitats on the island continue to disappear and so this 26-acres of BLM property takes on even greater meaning for wildlife and to those of us that walk the trails, marvel at the spectacular views, share special times here with family and friends, and perhaps take a moment to remember how lucky we are to live in such a special part of the world.

Our Newsletter: What national monument comes next? (October 2, 2012)

Journal of the San Juans: Tattoo artist shines in national debate (October 2, 2012)

Islands Sounder: Tattoos for land preservation (October 2, 2012)

Seattle Times: Op-ed: Designate a national monument in San Juan Islands (October 3, 2012)

Washington Kayak Club: Support the creation of a National Monument in the San Juan Islands (October 7, 2012)

Puget Sound Business Journal: Why this election matters to the outdoors sector (October 12, 2012)

Bellingham Herald: Supports San Juan national monument (October 15, 2012)

Islands Weekly: National Public Lands Day Celebration a great success (October 19, 2012)

The Green Register: Congressman Wears "Tattoo" In Support of San Juan Islands National Monument(October 22, 2012)

KOMO News: Support swells to make San Juan Islands a national monument (October 28, 2012)

Islands Sounder: A look at Indian Island and East Sound (November 1, 2012)

Keepers of the Patos Light: Hundreds get tattoos showing support! (November 1, 2012)

Keepers of the Patos Light: Salazar, Cantwell push to protect San Juan Islands (November 1, 2012)

Sierra Club Blog: It's Time for a San Juan Island National Monument (November 1, 2012)

San Juan Islander: San Juan Island Residents Seek Presidential "Autograph" (November 8, 2012)

Lake Stevens Journal: San Juan Island Residents Seek Presidential 'Autograph' (November 9, 2012)

Public News Service: San Juan Island Residents Seek Presidential "Autograph" (November 9, 2012)

This Public News Service story ran on over a dozen different radio stations across the state.

Seattle PI: Gregoire as Interior Secretary in Obama's second term? (November 28, 2012)

Conservation Lands Foundation: Santa's Makin' a List, He's Checkin' it Twice...And He's Asking for a San Juan Islands National Monument (December 19, 2012)

Treehugger: 10 Environmental Victories of 2012 (December 21, 2012)

A new term starts in Washington, D.C. - early 2013

As Congress started a new session and President Obama entered his second term, the community's desire to protect these lands continued to grow. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, who was a great friend of this effort announced that he would step down as of March. Supporters suggested that completing the permanent protection of these precious places would be a great part of his legacy. Senator Cantwell, Senator Murray, Congressman Larsen and Congresswoman DelBene sent a joint letter to President Obama asking him to act during Salazar's term. Congressman Larsen also wrote a letter to Secretary Salazar with similar sentiments. The delegation appeal to act was joined by Governor Jay Inslee in his own letter to the President.

In February President Obama nominated Sally Jewell to succeed Salazar. As confirmation hearings were held for Jewell in March, the congressional delegation from northwest Washington re-introduced legislation in the House and Senate to protect the BLM lands as the San Juan Islands National Conservation Area.

Seattle PI: Salazar leaving Interior, a Washington replacement? (January 16, 2013)

Greenwire: Salazar has long list of unfinished business (January 17, 2013)

Salazar may pressure the White House to designate a national monument ... on BLM-managed islands off the coast of Washington state

Senator Maria Cantwell Press Release: Cantwell Statement on Retirement of Interior Secretary Ken Salazar (January 17, 2013)

KUOW: What Would You Like to See The President Accomplish in The Next Four Years? (January 18, 2013)

Seattle PI: Murray, Cantwell tell Obama: We want San Juans monument NOW (January 28, 2013)

Spokane Public Radio: Democrats Send Obama Firm Letter Over National Monuments in Washington State (January 29, 2013)

KGMI 790 Bellingham: Senators Tell Obama To Approve San Juan Monument (January 29, 2013)

Lopez Rocks: Thank You To The Washington Delegation For Their Support Of BLM-San Juans NM (January 29, 2013)

E&E News: Wash. lawmakers urge Obama to designate San Juan Islands monument (subscription) (January 29, 2013)

Friday Harbor Now: NW Washington Delegation Urges President Obama to Protect Lands on San Juan Islands (January 29, 2013)

Bellingham Herald: Washington congressional Dems push for San Juans national monument (January 29, 2013)

Senator Maria Cantwell Press Release: NW Washington Delegation Urges President Obama to Protect Lands on San Juan Islands (January 29, 2013)

Congressman Rick Larsen Press Release: NW Washington Delegation Urges President Obama to Protect Lands on San Juan Islands (January 29, 2013)

E&E News: Babbitt faults Obama for 'lopsided' management of oil and gas, conservation (subscription) (February 5, 2013)

Think Progress: John Podesta: Conservation Deserves Equal Ground on Public Lands (February 5, 2013)

Linda de Lopez (blog): A National Monument Designation, Perhaps? (February 6, 2013)

San Juan Islander: Larsen Statement on Nomination of Sally Jewell to Lead Interior Department (February 6, 2013)

Congressman Rick Larsen Press Release: Larsen Statement on Nomination of Sally Jewell to Lead Interior Department (February 6, 2013)

I look forward to working with Sally on issues important to our economy and environment, starting with the designation of the San Juan Islands National Monument.

Seattle PI: Sally Jewell to Interior: U.S. overdue for action on public lands (February 6, 2013)

Seattle PI: Ex-Sec. Andrus to REI's Sally Jewell: Think big!!! (February 7, 2013)

San Juan Islander: Washington CEO as Interior Secretary? (February 8, 2013)

It would be wonderful if Salazar finished up his legacy and declared the national monument before he left.

Public News Service: Washington CEO as Interior Secretary? (February 8, 2013)

Everett Herald: A cabinet chief with pull (February 10, 2013)

The San Juan Islands National Monument is a no-brainer.

Seattle PI: U.S. 'green' scoreboard: Republicans flunk (February 20, 2013)

Salish Sea Communications: Governor Jay's Valentine's Day Note to President Barack (February 21, 2013)

Adventure NW: San Juan Islands National Monument? (p. 8) (February 27, 2013)

GoSkagit.com: Lawmakers push for protection of San Juans land (March 7, 2013)

Journal of the San Juans: State's U.S. delegation renews 'Conservation Area' designation quest (March 7, 2013)

Crosscut: The Daily Troll (March 7, 2013)

Seattle PI: Bill introduced to protect San Juans (March 7, 2013)

San Juan Islander: Cantwell, Murray, Larsen, DelBene Introduce Legislation to Preserve Federal Land on San Juan Islands (March 7, 2013)

Congressman Rick Larsen Press Release: Cantwell, Murray, Larsen, DelBene Introduce Legislation to Preserve Federal Land on San Juan Islands (March 7, 2013)

Whether through action by Congress or the President, the federal government should answer the Islanders' calls to permanently protect these lands for the enjoyment by all.

Senator Maria Cantwell Press Release: Cantwell, Murray, Larsen, DelBene Introduce Legislation to Preserve Federal Land on San Juan Islands (March 7, 2013)

Whether through this legislation or a presidential designation, we must preserve these cherished federal lands on the San Juan Islands. This dual-track approach is the best way to ensure we answer the local community's call to preserve this land for future generations to enjoy.

Orcas Issues: National Conservation Area for San Juans Proposed in U.S. Congress (March 8, 2013)

The Island Guardian: "Will Obama Declare National Monument Status To BLM Lands in County" (March 8, 2013)

Islands Sounder: State's U.S. delegation renews 'Conservation Area' designation quest (March 8, 2013)

Islands Weekly: State's U.S. delegation renews 'Conservation Area' designation quest (March 9, 2013)

Friday Harbor Now: Protect the San Juan Islands (March 9, 2013)

Seattle PI: 13 national landmarks named: The West gets left out (March 11, 2013)

KGMI 790 Bellingham: Lawmakers Push protection for San Juan Islands (March 11, 2013)

Sierra Club: Sally Jewell: From REI to DOI? (March 13, 2013)

Huffington Post: Sally Jewell: From REI to DOI? (March 14, 2013)

As the "Conservation in the West" polling data shows, people in the West understand the value of protecting these special places. A national monument generates economic and recreational value for nearby communities, and it keeps doing so in perpetuity.

Seattle PI: Alpine Lakes: A milestone and a millstone (March 14, 2013)

Seattle PI: Jewell nomination: Likely headed to Senate floor (March 19, 2013)

San Juan Islands National Monument is Created - March 25, 2013

On March 21st news came out that President Obama would designate the BLM lands of the San Juan Islands as a national monument as of March 25th. The announcement and signing of the proclamation received significant press nationally. Below is a sampling.

Seattle PI: Obama will create National Monument in San Juans (March 21, 2013)

“This is a great idea and I’m glad the president is making the designation,” said Bellingham Mayor Kelli Linville. “I know about this place, having a home out there. People come there from all over the world. The natural and historic quality of the islands is unsurpassed.”

Seattle Times: Obama to designate national monument in San Juan Islands (March 21, 2013)

Senator Maria Cantwell Press Release: Cantwell Applauds National Monument Declaration for Federal Land on San Juan Islands (March 21, 2013)

Congressman Rick Larsen Press Release: Larsen: White House Got Our Message, Will Establish National Monument in San Juan Islands (March 21, 2013)

Washington Post: Obama to declare five national monuments Monday, sources say (March 21, 2013)

Dayton Daily News: Wilberforce's Charles Young Buffalo Soliders to become national monument (March 21, 2013)

Lopez Rocks: President Obama to Declare the Blm Lands in the Islands As a National Monument (March 21, 2013)

Friday Harbor Now: Obama to Sign Proclamation to Protect 1,000 Acres of Lands in the San Juans (March 21, 2013)

Q13 Fox: Nearly 1,000 acres in San Juan Islands to be national monument (March 21, 2013)

EarthFix: President Obama Set To Create National Monument In Washington's San Juan Islands (March 21, 2013)

San Juan Preservation Trust Press Release: Local Land Trusts Applaud Creation of San Juan Islands National Monument (March 21, 2013)

Our Press Release: Islanders Rejoice Over Presidential Plan to Designate San Juan Islands Federal Lands as National Monument (March 21, 2013)

Journal of the San Juans: Nation's newest national monument? the San Juans (March 21, 2013)

Huffington Post: Preserving National Treasures (March 22, 2013)

KHQ: Obama to designate national monument in Washington (March 22, 2013)

Environment Washington Press Release: President Obama Protects Islands within the San Juans (March 22, 2013)

Reuters: Obama to protect lands, historical sites in five places (March 22, 2013)

MSN Travel (Canada): Obama to designate 5 national monuments (March 22, 2013)

Vet Voice Foundation Press Release: Veterans Cheer Designation of San Juan Islands National Monument (March 22, 2013)

As the latest addition to our National Conservation Lands, this monument will ensure the local economy stays strong by protecting important cultural and historical areas and safeguarding the natural areas and recreational opportunities on the public lands in the San Juan Islands.

KPLU Radio: New national monument planned in San Juan Islands (March 22, 2013)

MyNorthwest.com: San Juan Islands to become National Monument (March 22, 2013)

KGMI 790 Bellingham: Areas Of San Juan Islands Designated National Monument (March 22, 2013)

Seattle Times: National Monument will protect Cattle Point, Turn Point, other San Juan islands treasures(March 22, 2013)

Mother Nature Network: U.S. to create 5 new national monuments (March 22, 2013)

San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau Press Release: Obama to Declare National Monument in the San Juan Islands (March 22, 2013)

Orcas Issues: Obama to Propose Federal Lands in San Juans as National Monument (March 22, 2013)

KATU: Washington's San Juan Islands among five new national monuments (March 22, 2013)

The Columbian: Obama to designate San Juan Islands National Monument in Washington State (March 22, 2013)

The Detroit News: Obama to designate five national monuments (March 22, 2013)

Bellingham Herald: Obama to designate San Juan Islands, 4 others as national monuments (March 22, 2013)

The Conservation Fund Press Release: With Community Leaders, The Conservation Fund Commends President Obama's Designation Of Five New National Monuments (March 22, 2013)

KOMO News: Washington's San Juan Islands among five new national monuments (March 22, 2013)

San Francisco Chronicle: Obama to designate 5 national monuments (March 22, 2013)

KUOW: President Obama Set To Create National Monument In Washington's San Juan Islands (March 22, 2013)

Go Skagit: San Juans to receive federal monument status (March 22, 2013)

The Oregonian: San Juan Islands among five national monuments designated by President Obama (March 22, 2013)

San Juan Islander: Federal lands in San Juans now National Monument (March 22, 2013)

San Juan Islander: Murray applauds National Monument designation for SJIs (March 22, 2013)

San Juan Islander: Larsen: White House Got Our Message, Will Establish National Monument in San Juan Islands (March 22, 2013)

San Juan Preservation Trust: National Monument Status for San Juans (March 22, 2013)

Islands Sounder: Nation's newest national monument? The San Juan Islands (March 22, 2013

Yakima Herald: Obama to designate national monument in San Juan Islands (March 22, 2013)

Senator Patty Murray Statement: Senator Patty Murray's Statement on National Monument Designation of San Juan Islands (March 22, 2013)

Fox News: Despite Sequester, Obama to Designate Five New National Monuments (March 22, 2013)

Islands Weekly: Nation's newest national monument? The San Juan Islands (March 22, 2013)

The Washington Times: Despite sequester, Obama to designate five national monuments (March 22, 2013)

KIRO TV: Obama to designate national monument in San Juan Islands (March 22, 2013)

New York Times: Obama to Name New National Monuments (March 22, 2013)

Northwest Public Radio: President Obama Set To Create National Monument in Washington's San Juan Islands (March 22, 2013)

USA Today: Obama to designate five new national monuments (March 22, 2013)

The Kansas City Star: Obama to designate 5 national monuments (March 22, 2013)

Salon: Obama to designate 5 national monuments (March 22, 2013)

The Kansas City Star and Salon listings are just two examples of many outlets across the country that picked up the same AP story.

National Parks Traveler: Five national Monuments Expected To Be Added To National Park System Next Week (March 22, 2013)

The Wilderness Society Statement: The Wilderness Society statement on pending San Juan Islands National Monument (March 22, 2013)

The Wilderness Society Press Release: President Obama demonstrates strong commitment to conservation with national monument designations (March 22, 2013)

Conservation Lands Foundation Press Release: Community Leaders and Conservationists Applaud President Obama's Designation of Five New National Monuments (March 22, 2013)

Michigan Chronicle: President Obama to designate Harriet Tubman park a national monument (March 22, 2013)

The Island Guardian: "BLM Lands Become A National Monument" (March 22, 2013)

Albuquerque Journal: New National Monument (subscription) (March 22, 2013)

The Grio: President Obama to designate Harriet Tubman park a national monument (March 22, 2013)

Linda de Lopez (blog): It's Happening at Last! (March 23, 2013)

Travelers Today: President Obama Names Five New Sites National Monuments (March 23, 2013)

Everett Herald: San Juans among 5 new national monuments to be named by Obama (March 23, 2013)

Philadelphia Inquirer: Obama to designate 5 national monuments (March 23, 2013)

Spokesman-Review: Obama to preserve San Juan key sites (March 23, 2013)

Fox News Latino: Obama Plans to Designates 5 New National Monuments (March 23, 2013)

Washington Post: Obama to designate national monuments in 5 states (March 23, 2013)

The Olympian: Obama to designate national monument tin San Juan Islands (March 23, 2013)

Statesman Journal: Washington's San Juans among sites to be made national monuments (March 24, 2013)

Washington Trails Association: Hike the New San Juan Islands National Monument (March 25, 2013)

RTT News: Obama Proclaims Five New Monuments (March 25, 2013)

San Juan Island Update: Wahoo! The San Juan Islands are designated a National Monument (March 25, 2013)

Nature Travel Network: 5 New National Monuments to Add to Your U.S. Travel List (March 25, 2013)

The Wilderness Society: Win for wildlands! President Obama designates five new national monuments(March 25, 2013)

KOSU: President's Pen Establishes New National Monuments (March 25, 2013)

Sierra Club Press Release: Sierra Club Commends Creation of San Juan Islands National Monument(March 25, 2013)

NBC News: To protect Lands, Obama designates five new national monuments (March 25, 2013)

Coastal Conservation Network: America's Newest National Monument Protects San Juan Islands in Washington's Puget Sound (March 25, 2013)

Daily Kos: The Daily Bucket: San Juan Islands National Monument (March 25, 2013)

This has been a long time in the works, and we islanders are celebrating, as are other folks who love and value nature!

Examiner.com: President Obama designates San Juan Islands federal lands a National Monument (March 25, 2013)

Everett Herald: National recognition for an understated Gem (March 25, 2013)

Take Part: Coming to America - 5 New National Monuments (March 25, 2013)

Q13 Fox: Nearly 1,000 acres in San Juan Islands now a national monument (March 25, 2013)

KBKW: Cantwell Joins President Obama for Signing of San Juan Islands National Monument Declaration(March 25, 2013)

Seattle PI: Rep. Doc Hastings disputes San Juans, other national monuments (March 25, 2013)

Newser: US Creates 5 New National Monuments (March 25, 2013)

The Oregonian: San Juan islands in Washington site of new national monument by presidential proclamation (March 25, 2013)

Politico: Obama designates new monuments, draws GOP criticism (March 25, 2013)

UPI: Obama designates five new monuments (March 25, 2013)

KREM: Obama designates San Juan Islands as a national monument (March 25, 2013)

Environmental News Service: Obama Creates Five National Monuments to 'Benefit All Americans" (March 25, 2013)

The Hill: White House declares five national monuments (March 25, 2013)

MSN News: Obama designates 5 new national monuments (March 25, 2013)

White House Blog: President Obama Establishes Five New National Monuments (March 25, 2013)

“By designating these national monuments today, we will ensure they will continue to inspire and be enjoyed by generations of Americans to come.”

NPR: President's Pen Establishes New National Monuments (March 25, 2013)

The Oregonian: Obama designates new national monument in Washington's San Juan Islands (March 25, 2013)

Smithsonian: Obama Dedicates Five New National Monuments (March 25, 2013)

Seattle PI: Obama makes it legal on San Juan Islands National Monument (March 25, 2013)

LA Times: President Obama creates five new national monuments (March 25, 2013)

Conservation Lands Foundation Press Release: Designation of Five New National Monuments to Benefit Local Communities (March 25, 2013)

Senator Maria Cantwell Press Release: Cantwell Joins President Obama for Signing of San Juan Islands National Monument Declaration (March 25, 2013)

KOMO News: San Juan Islands now an official national monument (March 25, 2013)

Seattle Times: Obama creates San Juan Islands National Monument: read the proclamation (March 25, 2013)

KGMI Radio Bellingham: San Juan Islands Become National Monument (March 25, 2013)

Planet Washington: Using executive power, Obama will name five new national monuments (March 25, 2013)

Grist: Obama creates five new national monuments (March 25, 2013)

KONP: San Juan Islands get national protection (March 25, 2013)

Public News Service: San Juans Gain National Monument Status (March 25, 2013)

Crosscut: Obama protects San Juans' beauty, mystery (March 25, 2013)

Washington Kayak Club: San Juan Islands National Monument Established (March 26, 2013)

National Geographic: Obama Declares Monuments to Preserve Pieces of U.S. Heritage (March 26, 2013)

Indian Country Today: 'We Have a Monument!' Islanders and Coast Salish Tribes Celebrate President Obama Establishing San Juan Islands National Monument by Proclamation (March 26, 2013)

Seattle Times: San Juans are flavor-of-month as TripAdvisor jumps on bandwagon (March 26, 2013)

National Trust for Historic Preservation: America's Antiquities Act Makes History with Five New National Monuments (March 26, 2013)

Everett Herald: Ensuring a natural legacy (March 26, 2013)

We need to know the music of the beaches and the woods, the late U.S. Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas wrote. So it is forever with the San Juan Islands National Monument.

REI Blog: Meet Our 5 New National Monuments, Including San Juan Islands and Rio Grande del Norte(March 26, 2013)

San Juan Islander: San Juan Island Voted Top Island by TripAdvisor (March 26, 2013)

National Parks Traveler: Updated: Republicans Criticize New National Monuments.....And Push for National Historical Park (March 26, 2013)

Canoe & Kayak: San Juan Islands Designated National Monument (March 27, 2013)

KGMI: More National Recognition For San Juan Island (March 27, 2013)

Ukiah Daily Journal: Another Voice - Point Arena-Stornetta lands need protection too (March 27, 2013)

Sierra Club: Wild: San Juan Islands National Monument (March 27, 2013)

New York Times: Obama's Public Lands Record (March 27, 2013)

Seattle Times: Obama gives San Juan Islands monument protection (March 28, 2013)

Celebrating the San Juan Islands National Monument

Secretary Salazar, Senator Cantwell, Congressman Larsen and Congresswoman DelBene celebrated the monument designation with an event in Anacortes on April 1st, 2013. There was a local community celebration on Lopez Island later that day. Both were standing-room-only gatherings. In addition, there were many editorials praising the President's action and the lands that it protected.

Trailblazer: Visiting San Juan Islands National Monument (March 28, 2013)

Huffington Post: Who Needs Congress? (March 28, 2013)

Friday Harbor Now: Two Parties Celebrating National Monument on Monday, April 1 (March 28, 2013)

San Juan Islander: Two Parties on Monday, April 1st to celebrate National Monument designation (March 28, 2013)

Huffington Post: Obama's New National Monuments a Win for Future Generations and Local Economies Today (March 28, 2013)

Seattle Times: Editorial: San Juan Islands, a national monument indeed (March 29, 2013)

President Obama’s designation of federal land on the San Juan Islands as a national monument is a point of pride for the entire state.

Northwest Cable News: Northwest Postcards -- San Juan islands National Monument (March 29, 2013)

Orcas Issues: LWV Thanks Those Who Supported San Juans' National Monument Designation (March 29, 2013)

The Wilderness Society: Top hikes on Washington's San Juan Islands - your newest national monument(March 29, 2013)

San Juan Island Update: National Monument Parties (March 30, 2013)

Journal of the San Juans: Two National Monument celebrations, on Monday (March 30, 2013)

Seattle Times: Obama makes San Juan Islands a national monument (March 31, 2013)

KOMO: San Juan Islands celebrate national monument designation (April 1, 2013)

Washington Post: Political leaders celebrate San Juan Islands National Monument (April 1, 2013)

Anacortes Now: Celebration here for San Juan Islands preservation (April 1, 2013)

KING5: Leaders celebrate San Juan Islands National Monument (April 1, 2013)

Seattle PI: Pols, residents celebrate San Juan monument (April 1, 2013)

Journal of the San Juans: Springsteen to headline National Monument Concert (April Fools Day, 2013)

KIRO: Community leaders celebrate San Juan Islands National Monument (April 1, 2013)

KIRO: U.S., State leaders to celebrate establishment of San Juan islands National Monument (April 1, 2013)

Seattle Times: A Monumental Picture (April 1, 2013)

Examiner.com: San Juan Islands National Monument dedicated (April 1, 2013)

KIRO: Celebration of San Juan Islands National Monument (April 1, 2013)

Interior Department Press Release: Secretary Salazar Celebrates Establishment of San Juan Islands National Monument (April 1, 2013)

The Oregonian: Interior secretary, Washington state leaders celebrate San Juan Islands preservation (April 1, 2013)

The News Tribune: Leaders celebrate San Juan Islands preservation (April 1, 2013)

Lake County News: Brandon: Support for creating Point Arena-Stornetta monument (April 1, 2013)

Washington Post: Political leaders celebrate San Juan Islands National Monument (April 1, 2013)

The Washington Post story is an example of many outlets across the country that picked up the same AP story.

eNews Park Forest: Secretary Salazar Celebrates Establishment of San Juan Islands National Monument (April 1, 2013)

Seattle Times: Washington's new San Juan Islands National Monument has two siblings (April 1, 2013)

Salish Sea Communications: Salazar Brings Gift of 'Monument' to San Juans (April Fools Day, 2013)

Seattle PI: Celebration, tour of San Juan Islands National Monument (April 1, 2013)

Yakima Herald: Hastings' monumental mistake (April 1, 2013)

High Country News: On setting aside new national monuments (April 2, 2013)

Islands Sounder: Thanks for National Monument status (April 2, 2013)

Environment Washington: Day Filled With Events To Commemorate New National Monument (April 2, 2013)

Go Skagit: San Juans celebrated as new national monument (April 2, 2013)

San Juan Islander: National Monument celebrated April 1 (April 2, 2013)

Seattle PI: Seattle protests: The noisy versus the successful (April 3, 2013)

Salish Sea Communications: When The People Lead, Leaders Will Follow (April 3, 2013)

Vet Voice Foundation: Dedication of the San Juan Islands National Monument (April 4, 2013)

Washington Post: 17 photos that make you appreciate America (April 4, 2013)

Times Standard: Protect more national treasures (April 4, 2013)

New York Times: Salazar Looks Back on a 'Joyful Run' as Interior Secretary (April 5, 2013)

The Columbian: In Our View: Cheers & Jeers (April 6, 2013)

Reading the Washington Landscape: San Juan Islands National Monument Map (April 6, 2013)

The Spokesman-Review: San Juan Islands high on everyone's list, including Obama's (April 7, 2013)

Seattle PI: Senate confirms REI's Sally Jewell as Interior Secretary (April 10, 2013)

Islands Sounder: Journey to monumental status (April 11, 2013)

Journal of the San Juans: Two tends, one monumental journey (April 12, 2013)

The Oregonian: The San Juan Islands are winning fans nationwide for their natural beauty and recreational activities (April 12, 2013)

The Dalles Chronicle: San Juan Islands: High On Everyone's List (April 13, 2013)

The Wenatchee World: San Juan Islands high on everyone's list (April 13, 2013)

Seattle PI: San Juan Islands high on everyone's list (April 13, 2013)

Idaho Press-Tribune: San Juan Islands high on everyone's list (April 13, 2013)

KOMO: San Juan Islands high on everyone's tourism list (April 14, 2013)

Reading the Washington Landscape: San Juan Islands National Monument - Whatcom County Sector(April 17, 2013)

Seattle Times: Best Places to visit and hike the new San Juans monument (April 17, 2013)

First Peoples Worldwide: President Obama Protects Native American Heritage Sites (April 18, 2013)

Senator Maria Cantwell Press Release: Cantwell Applauds New Additions to San Juan Island National Historical Park (April 21, 2013)

CONTINUING Coverage

Designation was key, but just the first step on a journey that continues. Below is press coverage from the first five years of the monument's life.

CityWeekly.net: Good Climate for Monuments (April 24, 2013)

USA Today: 10 new jewels on must-see national parks list (May 21, 2013)

Alaska Airlines Magazine: San Juan Islands Getaways (June, 2013)

Sunset: 75 reasons to love the West - #32 Land worth protecting (June, 2013)

Journal of the San Juans: 2013 Guide to Outdoor Adventure in the San Juan Islands / San Juans: nation's newest national monument [PDF] (Summer, 2013)

Seattle PI: What's up, Doc? Alpine Lakes bill finally gets hearing (June 11, 2013)

Seattle PI: Alpine Lakes: In the hands of a hostile House (June 24, 2013)

Journal of the San Juans: It's here; your guide to outdoor adventure (July 3, 2013)

KAPS: $5.5-million has been secured for Cattle Point Road Project on San Juan Island (July 3, 2013)

San Juan Islander: $5.5 million awarded for $6.2 million Cattle Point Road fix (July 4, 2013)

Public Radio International: New monuments join National Park System this summer (July 9, 2013)

My Public Lands: experience san juan islands national monument (July 11, 2013)

Seattle Magazine: Easy Island Getaways: Monumental Summer [PDF] (August, 2013)

Seattle PI: Sally Jewell: Locked in Obama Cabinet? (August 19, 2013)

Seattle PI: Interior Sec. Jewell: 'Not thankless, but controversial' (August 26, 2013)

Friday Harbor Now: Attend San Juan Islands National Monument Public Meetings (August 27, 2013)

Journal of the San Juans: Rick Larsen; Hospital District Election (August 28, 2013)

The Island Guardian: National Monument Meetings This Week (September 23, 2013)

Journal of the San Juans: A National Monument in the making (September 25, 2013)

San Juan Islander: San Juan Islands National Monument Public Meetings Sept. 26 Orcas; Sept 27 SJ and Lopez (September 25, 2013)

San Juan Islander: Now is the time for input on management of National Monument (September 30, 2013)

Islands Weekly: Third Annual National Public Lands Day Celebration: Fun in the Rain (October 11, 2013)

San Juan Islander: BLM Explains Implementation of Shoreline Stabilization at Watmough Bay (Octover 21, 2013)

Conservation Lands Foundation: Running for the Conservation Lands Foundation Comes to Seattle (November 25, 2013)

EcoNews: 11 Wilderness Victories in 2013 (December 19, 2013)

Journal of the San Juans: Top Ten Stories of 2013: No. 6; A 'Monumental' designation (December 26, 2013)

National Trust for Historic Preservation: 10 Preservation Wins in 2013 (December 30, 2013)

Islands Weekly: Top ten stories of 2013 (December 31, 2013)

Care2: 5 Winning Moments for the Environment in 2013 (December 31, 2013)

Huffington Post: 10 Historic Places That Were 'Saved' in 2013 (January 1, 2014)

Journal of the San Juans: deChadenedes named manager of SJIs National Monument (January 25, 2014)

Islands Sounder: BLM manager for San Juans (January 29, 2014)

The Island Guardian: National Monument Manager Marcia deChadenedes (January 30, 2014)

BLM Press Release: Representatives Needed for San Juan Islands Advisory Committee (February 6, 2014)

Hunting Washington Forum: Reps Needed for BLM San Juan Islands National Monument Advisory Committee (February 11, 2014)

San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce: National Monument Advisory Committee (February 11, 2014)

Islands Sounder: National Monument committee seeks members (February 13, 2014)

Living on Earth: Presidential Pen Creating National Monuments (February 14, 2014)

Orcas Issues: Meet & Greet for New National Monument Manager (February 27, 2014)

ITCM: San Juan Island receives TripAdvisor 2014 top travel award (March 3, 2014)

Islands Weekly: Nat'l Monument manager hired (March 4, 2014)

San Juan Update: Meet & Greet with New BLM Nat'l Monument Manager (March 5, 2014)

Islands Sounder: Nat'l Monument manager hired (March 5, 2014)

Journal of the San Juans: Meet-n'-greet with National Monument manager (March 5, 2014)

The Island Guardian: Meet and Greet Nat. Monument Manager (March 10, 2014)

Daily Kos: The Daily Bucket: Satinflower at Iceberg (and other pink delights) (March 15, 2014)

Journal of the San Juans: Monument: premium placed on partnerships (March 18, 2014)

Islands Sounder: The task of managing a monument (March 18, 2014)

Islands Weekly: The task of managing a monument (March 20, 2014)

Seattle PI: Will House Republicans pass the 'No More Parks Act' and eviscerate Antiquities Act? (March 24, 2014)

Seattle PI: U.S. House passes bill to curtail national monuments (March 26, 2014)

Everett Herald: Must keep natural legacy (March 26, 2014)

Bellingham Herald: National monument status protects beauty, history of San Juan Islands (March 29, 2014)

Journal of the San Juans: Exxon Valdez: lessons learned? (April 3, 2014)

The day made infamous by the ship Exxon Valdez marks one of the darkest days in Pacific Northwest history; the National Monument designation day marks one of the shiniest.

The Olympian: Protect our treasure of national parks, monuments (April 4, 2014)

Journal of the San Juans: While time flies, partnerships prevail (April 5, 2013)

The preservation effort for the National Monument designation recognized the uniqueness of the islands and their role in Puget Sound's health

San Juan Islander: San Juan Islanders: "Don't Take Antiquities Act for Granted" (April 7. 2014)

Public News Service: San Juan Islanders: "Don't Take Antiquities Act for Granted" (April 7, 2014)

Journal of the San Juans: 'Hands-on, Feet Wet'; marine education program for teens (April 18, 2014)

CLM Internship Program: Spring Botany in the San Juan Islands (April 25, 2014)

Monuments Matter: A Very Brief Consideration of Monument Management at Giant Sequoia and San Juan Islands National Monuments (April 27, 2014)

Daily Kos: The Daily Bucket: blooming at Iceberg (May 1, 2014)

Time: Photos: Every National Monument President Obama Has Declared (May 21, 2014)

Journal of the San Juans: BLM to host 'gatherings' for input on monument (May 23, 2014)

CLM Internship Program: Botany by Boat: Plant Inventory in the San Juan Island [sic] (May 28, 2014)

Daily Kos: The Daily Bucket: botanizing by boat in San Juan Islands National Monument (May 30, 2014)

Islands Sounder: The return of the oystercatchers (June 1, 2014)

Islands Weekly: TLC for Iceberg Point (June 2, 2014)

Daily Kos: The Daily Bucket: Iceberg wildflowers, June update (June 14, 2014)

Journal of the San Juans: Monument plan marks milestone (June 18, 2014)

Examiner.com: Summer in the San Juan Islands (June 18, 2014)

CLM Internship Program: San Juan Islands National Monument (June 26, 2014)

Journal of the San Juans: San Juan Island Conservation Corps... making an impact (July 10, 2014)

CLM Internship Program: A Week's Worth of Botany on Patos Island (July 30, 2014)

National Geographic (Instagram): March of last year, President Obama declared... (August 4, 2014)

BLM Press Release: BLM Announces Appointments to San Juan Islands National Monument Advisory Committee (August 8, 2014)

The Island Guardian: BLM National Monument Advisory Committee (August 10, 2014)

Islands Weekly: BLM announces monument committee members (August 19, 2014)

CLM Internship Program: Farewell to San Juan Islands National Monument (August 26, 2014)

San Juan Islander: Subaru/Leave no trace traveling trainers present workshops Sept. 25-27 on SJ, Orcas and Lopez Islands (September 17, 2014)

Seattle PI: National monuments: Will Obama channel Theodore Roosevelt (September 19, 2014)

The Oregonian: San Juan Islands keep visitors enthralled with natural beauty, island lifestyle (September 20, 2014)

Islands Weekly: National Public Lands Day celebration on Lopez (September 21, 2014)

San Juan Islander: Searching for Sulphurs (September 29, 2014)

The Island Guardian: Top 10 national and state parks in Washington state (September 30, 2014)

Federal Register: Notice of Meeting of the San Juan Islands National Monument Advisory Committee (September 30, 2014)

Islands Weekly: Science in the classroom (October 1, 2014)

OutdoorsNW: NW Trails: Monumental Hiking in the San Juans (October 2, 2014)

Leave No Trace: Leave No Trace in the Middle of the Sea (October 18, 2014)

Islands Sounder: Indian Island: Five years of challenges and change (November 2, 2014)

Seattle PI: Pro-bicycle 'green' mayor reelected in Vancouver, BC (November 17, 2014)

Seattle PI: Protests, arrests over Canadian pipeline (November 21, 2014)

Islands Weekly: An evening of adventure with world kayaker (December 2, 2014)

Seattle PI: Washington set to get new national park, more wilderness protection (December 3, 2014)

Seattle PI: Plutonium and a national park: Marking birth of the atomic bomb (December 4, 2014)

BLM News: Celebrating America's Newest Conservation System: BLM Features Three New Landscapes in Vintage Poster Series (December 10, 2014)

Islands Weekly: KWIAHT announces 2015 community science training (December 15, 2014)

Islands Sounder: Kwiaht to host community science training program (December 16, 2014)

BLM Press Release: San Juan Islands National Monument Advisory Committee to Meet (December 17, 2014)

Federal Register: Meeting of the San Juan Islands National Monument Advisory Committee (December 18, 2014)

USA Today: Bareboating 101: Set a course for sailing adventure (December 19, 2014)

San Juan Islander: Open House at National Monument Office (December 23, 2014)

Islands Sounder: Why we like lichens (December 23, 2014)

Seattle PI: Boulder-White Clouds: The Northwest's next great protected wilderness (December 31, 2014)

Islands Weekly: Beauty and wonder of the national parks (January 20, 2015)

Idaho Statesman: Labrador bill would take monument power from president, Congress (February 11, 2015)

Idaho Statesman: Labrador, Crapo bills aim to revamp Antiquities Act (February 12, 2015)

Islands Sounder: National Monument recruiting for positions (February 17, 2015)

The Island Guardian: Obama names Chicago civil rights site Pullman Park a national monument (February 19, 2015)

Washington Examiner: Republicans aim to curb Obama's monument designations (February 20, 2015)

Frontiers Media: 8 Reasons Why You'll Fall in Love on the San Juan Islands (February 24, 2015)

Journal of the San Juans: Transition at the top ahead at BLM (February 25, 2015)

Seattle PI: A third baby orca and its family are headed this way (February 26, 2015)

USA Today: Vote for Your Favorite National Monument (March 1, 2015)

BLM Press Release: BLM Seeking Public Input for San Juan Islands National Monument Planning Process(March 2, 2015)

Federal Register: Notice of Intent to Prepare a Resource Management Plan and Associated Environmental Impact Statement for the San Juan Islands National Monument (March 2, 2015)

Orcas Issues: BLM Seeks Public Input for SJ Islands National Monument Plans (March 5, 2015)

Journal of the San Juans: 'Monumental' opportunity (March 6, 2015)

Islands Sounder: Scoping meeting for the national monument (March 6, 2015)

San Juan Islander: Scoping meeting for National Monument (March 12, 2015)

Go Anacortes: Comment on San Juan Islands monument plan (March 14, 2015)

Orcas Issues: Larsen Recognizes Community's Hard Work As San Juan Monument Turns Two (March 25, 2015)

My Public Lands: Throwback Thursday! (March 26, 2015)

Journal of the San Juans: Ranker named one of the nation's top 'pro-growth progressives' (March 27, 2015)

Islands Sounder: Ranker named top leader (March 30, 2015)

Islands Weekly: Naturalist's diary: Winter birds of Lopez seashores (April 2, 2015)

Islands Weekly: Check out 'Go for a hike' 2015 schedule from Trails Network (April 5, 2015)

Islands Weekly: Great Island Cleanup April 18 (April 12, 2015)

Federal Register: San Juan Islands National Monument Advisory Committee, Meeting (May 11, 2015)

Seattle PI: Vancouver, B.C.: Trying to head off 890,000 barrel-a-day oil pipeline (May 27, 2015)

High Country News: Battle of the Lands: Readers Vote (May 28, 2015)

The Island Guardian: National Monument Advisory Committee Meeting - Open To Public Comments (June 4, 2015)

Friends of Lopez Hill: Celebrate National Trails Day on Lopez Island (June 5, 2015)

Federal Register: Notice of Public Meeting (June 24, 2015)

Seattle PI: A very hot 15th birthday for Hanford Reach National Monument (June 25, 2015)

Islands Weekly: Florida team helps BLM assess National Monument Lands (June 30, 2015)

San Juan Islander: Veterans learn to fight wildfires on Lopez Island (July 9, 2015)

Seattle PI: Obama, channeling Teddy Roosevelt, creates 3 new national monuments (July 10, 2015)

Islands Weekly: Veteran firefighters wildland training (July 16, 2015)

Islands Weekly: Geology of Lopez Beaches (July 18, 2015)

Islands Weekly: Bound for the island adventure (July 20, 2015)

The Oregonian: Keen Footwear launches tour to save 3 million acres, including Oregon's Owyhee (July 22, 2015)

Huffington Post: 13 Stunning U.S. National Monuments You Didn't Know You Needed To See (July 27, 2015)

Islands Weekly: Two hot nights of science (August 13, 2015)

San Juan Islander: Larsen to visit Lopez Island Aug. 25 and San Juan Island Aug. 26 (August 20, 2015)

BLM: Scoping Report (August 21, 2015)

Islands Sounder: Larsen visits San Juan (September 1, 2015)

Journal of the San Juans: Rep. Larsen shucks oysters, talks transportation and veterans access in San Juan Islands (September 2, 2015)

Seattle PI: President Obama will visit Seattle on Oct. 9 to raise campaign money for Sen. Patty Murray (September 19, 2015)

Islands Weekly: National Public Lands Day 2015 (September 20, 2015)

Federal Register: Notice Of Public Meeting (September 21, 2015)

Islands Weekly: Scaly adventurer in island waters (October 20, 2015)

Seattle PI: Canada had 122 pipeline spills - including four big ones - during 2014: Obama ponders Keystone XL (November 3, 2015)

Seattle PI: With Keystone XL nixed, Alberta tar sands oil could be headed in our direction (November 6, 2015)

Los Angeles Times: Five great places to see killer whales in the wild (November 11, 2015)

World News: BLM Announces Appointments to San Juan Islands National Monument Advisory Committee(December 8, 2015)

My Public Lands Tumblr: Explore our top 15 #bucketlist locations in 2016 (December 20, 2015)

Islands Weekly: Donate warm coats to those in need (December 23, 2015)

Kenmore Air Blog: Top Picks to Visit During Free National Park Admission Days (January 15, 2016)

Island Guardian: "Public Invited To Give Input To BLM" (January 21, 2016)

Journal of the San Juans: BLM plans meetings on management of human uses and trails in National Monument (January 23, 2016)

Seattle PI: Secretary Jewell on national monuments: 'Everybody is coming to me with their wish list'(February 15, 2016)

Federal Register: Notice of Public Meeting for the San Juan Islands National Monument Advisory Committee (March 14, 2016)

KTVZ: BLM seeks nominations for resource advisory councils (March 21, 2016)

San Juan Islander: BLM Seeks Nominations to Resource Advisory Councils in WA, OR and CA (March 22, 2016)

Islands Weekly: Good fun and good work done by LCTN beach walkers (March 22, 2016)

Seattle PI: The President in a wheelchair who created Olympic National Park (March 29, 2016)

Beautiful Washington: Washington National Monuments (March 30, 2016)

Think Progress: Obama's National Monuments Have Been An Economic Boon For Local Economies (April 6, 2016)

Daily KOS: Obama's new national monuments generate lasting revenue for local economies (April 7, 2016)

Seattle PI: President Obama will designate Women's Equality National Monument (April 12, 2016)

Seattle PI: Sally Jewell: UW will hear from and honor one of its own (April 14, 2016)

Islands Weekly: Earth Day celebrations around Lopez (April 19, 2016)

Alaska Dispatch News: Seattle by way of Spokane and the San Juan Islands (May 5, 2016)

Bend Bulletin: National Park lands of the Northwest (May 19, 2016)

Islands Weekly: BLM releases AMS for San Juan Islands Plan (May 24, 2016)

San Juan Islander: Analysis of Management Situation for National Monument released (May 24, 2016)

BLM Press Release: BLM Releases AMS for San Juan Islands Plan (May 24, 2016)

Islands Weekly: Take a hike for National Trails Day (May 30, 2016)

Federal Register: Notice of Public Meeting for the San Juan Islands National Monument Advisory Committee (June 1, 2016)

San Juan Islander: June 4: National Trails Day - Lopez Island (June 2, 2016)

Shermans Travel: Easy Northwest Escapes: San Juan Islands, Washington (June 21, 2016)

Grants.gov: Iceberg point Cultural Fieldschool (June 24, 2016)

Seattle PI: Obama designates Stonewall National Monument at site of 1969 gay protest (June 24, 2016)

Seattle PI: A mixed summer message: Visit the Olympics but stay away from the goats (July 8, 2016)

Seattle PI: Republican platform: Sell off public lands in the West, log national forests (July 13, 2016)

Islands Sounder: Intern helps out at National Monument (July 13, 2016)

Seattle PI: U.S. House: Curb national monuments, strip money to protect wolves (July 14, 2016)

NW UU Justice Network: Coast Salish Totem Pole and Story Board Dedication Aug. 5 on San Juan Island (July 15, 2016)

Seattle PI: Whatcom County hits pause button on exports of fossil fuels (August 10, 2016)

San Juan Islander: Free "Leave No Trace" training Sept. 8-10 on Lopez, Orcas and San Juan Island (August 11, 2016)

San Juan Islander: National Park Service celebrates centennial Aug. 25 (August 22, 2016)

Idaho Statesman: Boise family takes yearlong field trip to America's national parks (August 23, 2016)

Indian Country Today: 'Watershed Moment': Pole, Story Boards Installed on Ancestral Village Site (August 24, 2016)

Conde Nast Traveler: Obama Names Maine's North Woods a New National Monument (August 25, 2016)

Earth Day Network: From Sea to Shining Sea: Protect our National Parks (August 24, 2016)

Islands Sounder: Leave no trace and hunt for Bigfoot (August 29, 2016)

Seattle PI: A pipeline next door: Canadian project means 34 tankers a month in our waters (September 14, 2016)

Mother Nature Network: 15 things Obama has done for the environment (October 10, 2016)

Seattle PI: Rick Larsen: The crosscurrents of our 'Salish Sea district' in Congress (October 17, 2016)

San Juan Islander: Groups Celebrate 40th Anniversary of Public Lands Legislation (October 21, 2016)

Islands Weekly: View the night skies with Nancy Maryboy (November 18, 2016)

Journal of the San Juans: View Navajo astronomy at the Lopez Library (November 21, 2016)

Seattle PI: Trudeau expected to approve giant Canadian pipeline -- tankers in our waters (November 22, 2016)

Seattle PI: Cantwell to White House: Protect Puget Sound from Canadian oil tanker spills (December 7, 2016)

Seattle PI: New Olympic wilderness honors former state GOP lawmaker (December 7, 2016)

San Juan Islander: Puget Sound Restoration one step closer to half a billion for Nearshore Ecosystem Restoration Project (December 8, 2016)

Sky Valley Chronicle: Puget Sound Restoration closer to getting largest ever investment (December 9, 2016)

Federal Register: Notice of Public Meeting for the San Juan Islands National Monument Advisory Committee (December 15, 2016)

Seattle PI: Lawsuit: Orcas put in peril by Canadian pipeline and tankers (December 20, 2016)

San Juan Islander: National Monument Committee meeting on Lopez (December 20, 2016)

Islands Weekly: LICC excited about expansion (December 21, 2016)

San Juan Island Update: Project of the Year for NYC's ASL Crew (December 23, 2016)

Seattle PI: Obama designates two big new national monuments in Utah, Nevada (December 28, 2016)

Journal of the San Juans: Youth ASL parks crew honored for SJI project (December 28, 2016)

The Guardian: Obama leaves 'phenomenal legacy' of protecting historic and natural land (December 31, 2016)

Seattle PI: Renowned upper Methow Valley safe from mining exploration (January 3, 2017)

San Francisco Chronicle: Strolling through Obama's national monument legacy (January 9, 2017)

Men's Journal: Neil Kornze: The Man Cementing Obama's Public Lands Legacy (January 10, 2017)

Seattle PI: B.C. backs oil pipeline that will put tankers in Salish Sea (January 11, 2017)

Seattle PI: New Obama monuments: From NW biodiversity to a bombed Birmingham motel (January 12, 2017)

San Juan Islander: Presidential Memorandum: Public lands need to be inclusive (January 12, 2017)

Salish Sea Ecosystem Conference: Managing Sustainable Use on Community Conservation Lands (January 12, 2017)

CBS: 29 breathtaking photos of President Obama's national monuments (January 15, 2017)

Islands Weekly: Meet with the Monument Advisory Committee (February 1, 2017)

San Juan Islander: Larsen calls on Congress to end orca captivity once and for all (February 2, 2017

KNKX: Design Contest For San Juan Island Plates To Help Sustain Conservation Lands (April 10, 2017)

San Juan Islander: BLM seeks nominations to Monument Advisory Committee (April 15, 2017)

Seattle PI: Connelly: Trump to sign 'review' order aimed at axing America's new national monuments (April 24, 2017)

CBS News: Trump seeks to review national monuments after Obama set record with designations (April 25, 2017)

San Juan County Republican Party: BLM Applications (April 25, 2017)

Seattle Times: Coming out of retirement to fight Trump on national monuments (April 25, 2017)

Elite Daily: 22 Stunning Pics of National Monuments Trump Could Get Rid Of With New Order (April 25, 2017)

Seattle Times: Concern Expressed as Hanford Reach is included in U.S. monument review (April 26, 2017)

Everett Herald: Editorial: Trump should leave national monuments as they are (April 26, 2017)

Seattle Times: Trump: national monuments a 'massive federal land grab' (April 26, 2017)

KUOW: Trump's new executive order could target two national monuments here in Washington (April 27, 2017)

KNKX: San Juan Islanders Say Community Involvement Is Key To Protecting National Monuments (April 28, 2017)

San Juan County Republican Party: Newsletter: BLM Advisory committee, SAFE San Juan event, OPALCO, etc. (April 28, 2017)

The Spokesman-Review: Trump's effect on the region (April 29, 2017)

San Juan Island Update: BLM Seeks Nominations to Monument Advisory Committee (May 4, 2017)

Sacramento Bee: Trump went after big national monuments, but some fear the small ones are next (May 10, 2017)

News Tribune: Trump went after big national monuments, but some fear the small ones are next (May 10, 2017)

San Juan Islander: Larsen to tour Lopez Community Land Trust Projects, County Public Works & meet with Friends of the National Monument (May 10, 2017)

The Hill: EPA chief takes aim at Obama's environmental records (May 11, 2017)

OPB: Washington AG Pledges to Defend National Monuments (May 11, 2017)

Seattle PI: AG Ferguson to Trump -- We'll sue if you mess with national monument (May 11, 2017)

KUOW: Washington AG Pledges To Defend National Monuments (May 11, 2017)

Seattle Times: AG Bob Ferguson invites Trump to Washington state for a look-see, threatens to sue him again (May 11, 2017)

San Juan Islander: AG Ferguson pledges legal defense of Washington's national monuments (May 11, 2017)

Office of the Attorney General: AG Ferguson pledges legal defense of Washington's national monuments (May 11, 2017)

San Juan Islander: Comments sought on Iceberg Field School proposal (May 12, 2017)

Capital Press: Washington AG Pledges To Defend National Monuments (May 12, 2017)

The Columbian: AG Ferguson vows to protect state's monuments (May 12, 2017)

Yakima Herald: Ferguson to challenge Trump administration on Hanford monument review (May 12, 2017)

KIRO: AG invites Trump to see nature in Washington state, threatens to sue again (May 12, 2017)

Seattle Times: Some fear San Juan Islands monument next on Trump list (May 12, 2017)

Normangee Star: Window for comments on national monuments narrow (May 14, 2017)

Islands Sounder: Trump executive order opposed by 325 bipartisan state legislators representing 44 states (May 15, 2017)

Islands Sounder: National monument status in danger? (May 16, 2017)

Seattle Times: Save our monuments! Trump getting mail from Washington state on that and other topics(May 16, 2017)

Journal of the San Juans: Is the San Juan Islands National Monument status in danger? (May 16, 2017)

Islands Sounder: Monitoring National Monument Status (May 16, 2017)

Seattle PI: Trudeau talks tech here, but what of oil tankers in our waters? (May 17, 2017)

KUOW: Some islanders don't dig federal plan to dig in San Juan Islands monument (May 24, 2017)

Journal of the San Juans: Iceberg Point in jeopardy (May 24, 2017)

OPB: Some Islanders Don't Dig Federal Plan To Dig In San Juan Islands Monument (May 25, 2017)

Islands Weekly: Iceberg Point in jeopardy (May 25, 2017)

Island Guardian: Gold Standard Designation SJI National Monument (June 2, 2017)

Augusta Free Press: Shenandoah National Park awarded Gold Standard designation (June 3, 2017)

Islands Sounder: Iceberg Point dig could locate artifacts, but harm native wildflowers (June 5, 2017)

Fayette Tribune: New River Gorge NR receives Gold Standard designation by Leave No Trace Center(June 7, 2017)

Islands Weekly: Iceberg Point dig could locate artifacts, but harm native wildflowers (June 8, 2017)

Islands Weekly: San Juan Islands National Monument awarded Gold Standard designation (June 8, 2017)

Journal of the San Juans: SJI National Monument recognized for "leave no trace" practices (June 8, 2017)

KUOW: San Juan Islands archaeological dig postponed after islanders have their say (June 15, 2017)

Islands Weekly: Iceberg Point dig postponed; environmental review extended (June 22, 2017)

Journal of the San Juans: Islanders emphasize importance of seasonal count in comprehensive plan population projection (June 22, 2017)

Seattle PI: Connelly: Day trips in Washington to beat the heat (June 23, 2017)

Islands Weekly: Disappointed by Iceberg Point controversy (July 5, 2017)

Journal of the San Juans: A chance to uncover an important past at Iceberg Point (July 5, 2017)

Seattle PI: Trump 'review' will keep hands off Hanford Reach National Monument (July 12, 2017)

Islands Sounder: Once in a lifetime experience: partial eclipse on Aug. 21 (August 13. 2017)

Islands Sounder: Indian Island wildflower recovery attracts bees (August 14, 2017)

San Juan Update: New Stairway to the Beach at Cattle Point (August 15, 2017)

San Juan Update: Lighthouse Restoration (August 31, 2017)

Journal of the San Juans: BLM requests feedback on public comment guide (August 31, 2017)

Islands Sounder: Lighthouse celebrates 124 years (September 9, 2017)

Public Now: Washington: BLM Advisory Committee to Meet in Friday Harbor (October 3, 2017

San Juan Islander: Oct 19: BLM Advisory Committee to meet in Friday Harbor (October 3, 2017)

Island Guardian: Public Welcome To BLM SJI National Monument Advisory Committee Meeting (October 15, 2017)

News Tribune: We must hold the line on national monuments (October 29, 2017)

Seattle PI: Inslee finds ally in Victoria premier against massive proposed oil pipeline (November 20, 2017)

Outdoors NW: Winter Hiking the San Juan Islands (January 2, 2018)

Islands Weekly: The Weekly's 2017 year in review (January 12, 2018)

Seattle PI: Dow Constantine joins B.C. pipeline resistance (February 15, 2018)

Journal of the San Juans: Spring Street students clean San Juan Island beaches (February 16, 2018)