Published by ARC El Paso ( KFOX14/CBS4) | Edition 03/20/2025 | Link To Article
EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — El Pasoans are celebrating a significant milestone as tomorrow marks the second anniversary of former President Biden's designation of Castner Range in northeast El Paso as a national monument.
The area, known for its vibrant display of golden Mexican poppies each spring, has become a cherished spot for family photos and reconnecting with nature.
Ángel Peña, Executive Director of the Nuestra Tierra Conservation Project, one of the leading coalitions in the fight for national recognition of Castner Range, emphasized the community's role in the achievement.
It was powered by El Pasoans, Cruseños, Las Crucans, Juarenses, and others who demanded a seat at the table and helped rewrite the playbook for communities seeking to conserve the space that we all care about so much," said Peña. He added, "Castner Range really symbolized opportunity, especially there on the borderlands.
The Trump administration's recent announcement to review several national monument sites across the country has raised concerns. Peña highlighted the broader implications of Castner Range's designation, noting its economic impact.
"In Texas, in 2023, the recreational economy generated just about $55.8 billion, billion with the B, placing it third in the nation for outdoor recreation spending," said Peña. "This review of national monuments is really putting our communities at risk, not only just for the simple enjoyment of these places, but also the hard resources and support it brings in for communities like El Paso."