Trump signs executive orders shrinking Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments by over 90%

On July 13, 2026, President Trump signed proclamations reducing Bears Ears National Monument from 1.36 million acres to 121,100 acres (91% reduction) and Grand Staircase-Escalante from 1.87 million acres to 181,500 acres (90% reduction). The move, Trump's second attempt after President Biden restored the monuments in 2021, opens vast protected lands to fossil fuel extraction and mining, with significant oil and gas reserves and uranium deposits sought by energy companies. The White House framed it as restoring sensible land management and fighting Antiquities Act overreach. Legal experts and environmental groups argue the action is illegal, as the Antiquities Act does not grant the president power to diminish monuments. Multiple environmental and tribal groups immediately announced legal challenges. The reductions affect sacred tribal sites and pristine wilderness.

“We’re doing something very dramatic and very important for the people of Utah and the people of our country,” said Trump. Quote verified against source