Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke says that Craters of the Moon National Monument in Idaho and the Hanford Reach National Monument in Washington are no longer under review for possible modification of their protected status.
The monuments were placed under review by President Donald Trump's April executive order.
Zinke says Thursday's announcement came after public comments and conversations with stakeholders. He is recommending that no changes be made to the two national monuments.
Zinke says Craters of the Moon is “a living timeline of the region's geologic history” -- and that sportsmen and women from all over the country go to Hanford Reach for fishing and bird hunting.
Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson applauded Zinke’s decision relating to the Craters of the Moon.
“I applaud Secretary Zinke for honoring the local consensus Idahoans have created with Craters of the Moon,” said Simpson. “I worked with a diverse group of stakeholders over ten years ago to ensure Craters reflects Idaho values and can be enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts. I know Secretary Zinke shares these values and I thank him for his leadership.”
In a press release, Zinke said, “As a former geologist, I realize Craters of the Moon is a living timeline of the geologic history of our land on the Great Rift. Whether it’s hiking up the alien-like lava flows along the Spatter Cones, or just driving through the scenic loop, there’s a lot to see and learn at this historic location.”
(Associated Press contributed to this story)
