US National Parks and National Monuments have long been a symbol of America’s beauty and greatness. The US government has taken large steps to preserve the natural landscape of the nation, even in times of opposition from state and local agencies. This deliberation explores the history of federal conservation and addresses the question: what exactly is the role of the federal government in regards to the conservation of land?

TEACHING ABOUT THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S ROLE IN CONSERVATION

• Lesson Plan
• Vocabulary Preview
• Background Articles Questions
• Background Video Questions
• Note-Taking Chart
• Deliberation Activities

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BACKGROUND VIDEOS

Theodore Roosevelt and the Influences of Conservationism– Author Chris Epting

“Biggest National Monument Reduction in History” -Noelle Straub, E&E News

National Monuments Review and the Antiquities Act -Kendra Pierre-Louise, Popular Science

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BACKGROUND ARTICLES

• In an unprecedented action, Trump dramatically shrinks two national monuments in Utah- LA Times
  
• Bears Ears National Monument Is Shrinking. Here’s What Is Being Cut-  New York Times