Trump to Shrink Utah Monuments Holding Artifacts, Minerals
- Bears Ears and Grand Staircase monuments expected to face cut
- Environmental groups are expected to challenge the move
The two bluffs known as the "Bears Ears" stand off in the distance in the Bears Ears National Monument outside Blanding, Utah.
Photographer: George Frey/Getty Images North AmericaThis article is for subscribers only.
President Donald Trump said Monday that he’ll shrink two national monuments in Utah that contain stunning red-sandstone vistas, historic relics and energy resources, arguing his predecessor overstepped in protecting the land.
Trump traveled to Salt Lake City for the announcement, and also met with leaders of the Mormon Church. He was accompanied on Air Force One by Utah Senators Mike Lee and Orrin Hatch, who is contemplating whether to run for re-election next year when he’ll turn 84.