A year ago, on March 21, 2023, President Joe Biden designated the Avi Kwa Ame National Monument in Nevada, using his authority granted by the Antiquities Act of 1906 to protect “objects of historic or scientific interest.”

While the president established the monument, the movement for the conservation of this land was led by the Fort Mojave and other Native American tribes from the area and supported by not only Indigenous Peoples but also local communities, lawmakers, sportsmen, and women, among many others. This designation has become an example of an effective, and inclusive conservation effort.

Spanning approximately 506,814 acres in southern Nevada, Avi Kwa Ame or Spirit Mountain is the place of origin for 10 Yuman-speaking Tribes of the Mojave and is sacred to the Hopi and Chemehuevi Paiute people. The designation of this national monument prevents the desecration of cultural sites, petroglyphs, and sacred lands for the Native communities and protects historical sites, including segments of the Old Spanish National Historic Trail and Walking Box Ranch, ensuring that the numerous objects of historic and scientific interest of this area are preserved for present and future generations.

This national treasure in Southern Nevada is home to expansive Joshua tree forests, providing critical habitat for species such as the desert bighorn sheep, desert tortoise, and Gila monster. This living landscape of the Mojave Desert also offers world-class outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, camping, birdwatching, motorized touring, stargazing, and hunting, all of which have continued to be allowed within the boundaries of the national monument while supporting local economies.

For years, Avi Kwa Ame was threatened by energy development proposals. During this first year, we have been able to see the impact of this designation in protecting these lands: 8 Minute Energy withdrew its application for the proposed Angora Solar Project on 2,816 acres within the monument, and Crescent Peak Renewables, LLC withdrew its application for the proposed Kulning Wind Energy Project wind energy generation plant and 29-mile transmission line located on 9,264 acres within the monument. 

Because of its tremendous cultural, historical, ecological, and recreational values, HECHO supported the efforts to establish this national monument, along with its Monumental SHIFT partners, a coalition led by ethnically and racially diverse leaders, ensuring that local voices are not just amplified but have seats at the decision-making table.

While a Resource Management Plan for Avi Kwa Ame National Monument is still in the works, the 506,814 acres of these protected lands are currently managed by the Interior Department’s Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and National Park Service. But consistently with the proclamation, Tribal Nations will co-steward and co-manage it.

Today, we continue to celebrate this victory that increases access to and protects a unique mountain range in a highly urban area and benefits people from all economic backgrounds while reflecting and honoring the local communities and the history and culture of the people who live there. 

During this first anniversary, HECHO encourages Nevadans and visitors alike to explore and enjoy the Avi Kwa Ame National Monument, which doesn’t require a fee to enter for the moment.

Check out All Trails and Friends of Avi Kwa Ame for more information on places to visit and things to do within the national monument boundaries. 

One-Year Later: Celebrating Avi Kwa Ame National Monument’s First Anniversary