By Scout Nelson
A coalition of conservation groups and Native American tribal citizens has proposed the Maah Daah Hey National Monument, which would designate nearly 140,000 acres of the scenic North Dakota Badlands as a national monument. The proposal aims to preserve the region’s cultural and indigenous heritage while protecting its natural beauty.
The monument would encompass 11 units across 139,729 acres in the Little Missouri National Grassland, surrounding the popular Maah Daah Hey Trail and adjacent to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Supporters emphasize the need to tell the story of the land and the people who first inhabited it, highlighting the interconnected relationship between them.
The U.S. Forest Service would manage the monument, safeguarding the area’s features without affecting existing oil, gas, or grazing leases. While dozens of oil and gas wells are present in the broader landscape, the proposed units exclude active leases or private ownership, ensuring minimal conflict with current uses.
Several tribal nations, including the MHA Nation, Spirit Lake Tribe, and Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, have voiced support through council resolutions. Democratic state Rep. Lisa Finley-DeVille emphasized the monument’s potential to help tribal citizens stay connected to their identity and heritage.
The effort has gained traction through meetings with federal officials, though challenges remain with time constraints and potential policy shifts under incoming administrations. Advocates argue the monument is a beneficial idea, regardless of political leadership.
North Dakota’s Governor Doug Burgum expressed optimism for balancing conservation and energy development, while Senator John Hoeven noted concerns about potential restrictions affecting ranchers and resource use.
If designated, the Maah Daah Hey National Monument would represent a significant step toward protecting North Dakota’s Badlands while honoring its rich cultural legacy.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-bunyarit
Categories: North Dakota, Energy, General