Gardner, Tipton Introduce Legislation to Further Protect Cultural Sites of Ancestral Pueblo Ahead of Yucca House National Monument 100th Anniversary

Statement

Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) and Congressman Scott Tipton (R-CO) and introduced bills H.R. 1492 and S. 641 respectively, that would further protect archaeological sites of the Ancestral Pueblo by allowing the National Park Service to modify the boundary of the Yucca House National Monument in southwest Colorado, expanding the monument by 160 acres.

The Yucca House National Monument was established in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson following an initial donation of 9.6 acres by Henry Van Kleeck. The monument was further expanded by approximately 24 acres in 1996. Today, a private landowner is seeking to donate 160 acres of land adjacent to the national monument to further protect archaeological sites and cultural resources. The land has been studied and determined to be appropriate for inclusion in the Yucca House National Monument. The donation must be facilitated through an Act of Congress.

"Protecting Colorado's public lands for our future generations is one of my top priorities, and I'm excited to introduce this legislation that will provide additional safeguards for Yucca House National Monument, one of the most well-preserved ancient dwellings in the country," said Senator Gardner. "Congressman Tipton and I will work together to see this bill signed into law so Coloradans can continue to benefit from our public lands."

"The Yucca House National Monument is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the country and stands as a reminder of how the ancient Pueblo people used to live hundreds of years ago," said Rep. Tipton. "One-hundred years after it was first granted national protection, I am proud to join with Senator Gardner to introduce legislation to further preserve these important cultural resources."

The bill text can be found here.

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