Increased Recreation: Another Threat to Bears Ears National Monument
Oh Bears Ears. I am happy that the boundaries have been restored. Yet, I am filled with anxiety and nervous about the future.
Being a political pawn and being in the public eyes of corporate America and mainstream media, also means more visibility. More visitors flocking to an area, an area that can’t handle mass herds of uneducated and disrespectful future visitors to this living landscape.
More people = more problems.
The Instagram influencer is now headed there with their phone in their hand and a hash tag in their brain. Got some product or sponsorship in mind ?
The #vanlife crowds are getting their obnoxiously large vehicles stuck in the mud or some other place where they shouldn’t be driving. Now, search and rescue has to assist. Remember this is a very remote area with little resources. Now, search and rescue has to assist. In a very remote area with little resources.
The herds will come and shit on the land, place more ugly stickers on the signs, more stinky butts will sit on the dwellings, and more greasy hands will touch the rock art.
Yes, I am being cynical and yes I should be optimistic that those that visit will treat the land with respect. I can only pray and wish. My golden wish is to have TONS of MONEY for the government to hire more rangers to help protect the land. Hire lots of local indigenous people if we can.
It will be hard work to tackle the recreation impacts and increased visitor use to this area.
*Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views or opinions of my employer.”
