Patagonia May Sue White House Over Nat’l Monument Review

‘We’re watching the Trump administration’s actions very closely and preparing to take every step necessary’ — Rose Marcario, Patagonia CEO.

Immediately after President Trump signed an executive order directing the Secretary of the Interior to review all national monument designations over the last 21 years, Patagonia publicly condemned the action.

Patagonia CEO Rose Marcario warned that the company was prepared to take “legal action to defend our most treasured public landscapes.”

The official review directs Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke to review all national monuments of 100,000 acres or more, designated after January 1, 1996. Zinke has 120 days to recommend any legislative or executive action, including rescinding monument status, a move never taken by any U.S. president.

Patagonia, National Monument Review

Zinke will scrutinize more than 30 monuments and speak with local governments and tribal leaders.

Earlier this year, Utah Governor Gary Herbert issued a resolution requesting President Trump rescind the national monument designation of Bears Ears made by President Obama in 2016.

Following Gov. Herbert’s resolution, Patagonia took the lead condemning his action and pulled out of Utah’s Outdoor Retailer show. That set off a cascade of opposition to Gov. Herbert by the outdoor industry, ultimately leading to Outdoor Retailer announcing it would seek a new home after 20 years in Utah.

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Marcario’s declaration also called upon all Americans to show their support of public lands.

“I urge everyone who loves America’s public lands and supports the continued protection of National Monuments to contact their members of Congress and Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke to express outrage at the Trump administration’s efforts to roll back National Monument protections,” she said. “Make sure your voice is heard by making phone calls, showing up at town hall meetings and visiting legislators’ offices in the coming days and weeks.”