Jurassic National Monument: When Conservation Faces Extinction

A Prehistoric Treasure

Deep in the heart of Utah lies one of America's most remarkable paleontological wonders - Jurassic National Monument, home to the Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry where you can view 1,500 dinosaur bones from different species of dinosaurs from the Late Jurassic period. Jurassic National Monument is part of the Bureau of Land Management's National Conservation Lands system, which protect some of the most essential and spectacular natural, cultural, and archaeological places in the country.

As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of National Conservation Lands this year, we face a troubling paradox. The very system and conservation tools designed to protect these irreplaceable treasures are under threat of becoming endangered.

The Ironic Twist

On this day in 2019, Jurassic National Monument received its official designation when President Donald Trump signed the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management and Recreation Act into law. Fast forward to 2025, and the same administration's dramatic staffing cuts in federal land management agencies are now threatening places like Jurassic National Monument. 

The Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry in Jurassic National Monument.
Photo: Bureau of Land Management

What's at Stake?

Jurassic National Monument is located on the northern edge of the Colorado Plateau, an intersection for several distinct geographic and biological regions. The monument offers visitors a glimpse into prehistoric times along with:

• Miles of established trails and scenic drives 
• Access to the Green and Yampa Rivers
• Home to more than 400 species of mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, and amphibians
• Six campgrounds and over 120 sites to choose from
• A gateway to understanding our planet's ancient history

People Power: The Real Force Behind Conservation

National Conservation Lands like Jurassic National Monument aren't protected in a vacuum. They exist because people like YOU fought for them. The National Conservation Lands system protects iconic landscapes, cultural sites, and waters across the country.

But conservation isn't a one-time effort. It takes ongoing action, commitment, and community.

Photo: National Park Service

Planning Your Visit 

The monument is scheduled to open to visitors on March 27, 2025, but be warned: operating hours and programs may be severely affected by staffing shortages. Before venturing out:

• Check with the Bureau of Land Management and National Park Service for current conditions
• Be prepared for reduced services and limited guidance
• Plan for a safe and responsible visit, respecting both the land and its cultural and historical significance

Take Action Now

The future of Jurassic National Monument and public lands across the country depends on citizen advocacy:

1. Call your members of Congress urging them to oppose terminations of land managers along with attacks on bedrock conservation tools like the Antiquities Act, which can be used to protect future national monuments.
2. Speak up at Congressional townhall meetings
3. Volunteer your time to help maintain these precious resources
4. Educate others about the importance of conservation and proper funding

Beyond the Quarry: Visiting the Monument

Jurassic National Monument offers exceptional experiences including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Hiking Highlight: The Fossil Discovery Trail

• 2.5 mile (4 km) round trip, out-and-back trail
• Easy to moderate difficulty
• Opportunity to see unexcavated fossils as paleontologists would find them
• No pets allowed
• Best experienced at dawn or dusk when the light illuminates the layered landscape

The Bottom Line

Just as dinosaurs faced extinction 65 million years ago, our conservation system faces its own extinction threat today. But unlike the dinosaurs, we have the power to prevent this disaster.

We must continue speaking out to ensure these natural and historic treasures remain protected for generations to come. The choice is ours. Visit conservationlands.org to learn more and join the fight.

Remember: Visit respectconnectprotect.org for more tips on how to plan ahead so you can have a safe and awesome visitor experience. 🦖✨

Additional Resources

• 25th Anniversary of the National Conservation Lands
• Bureau of Land Management, Jurassic National Monument
• National Park Service, Jurassic National Monument