‘We’re fighting to keep it designated,’ Chuckwalla activists lobbying in Washington, D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KESQ) -- Advocates for the Chuckwalla National Monument are taking their fight to Washington, D.C. in hopes of protecting the recently designated monument.

Last month, News Channel 3 spoke with advocates about fears the monument could face environmental rollbacks under a Department of Interior review of federal lands.

Now, several people including Palm Desert Mayor Pro Tem Evan Trubee are at the nation's capital speaking with lawmakers.

"I have no idea how the executive branch is going to respond. We're hoping that the Congress people will speak on our behalf," Trubee said.

Joel Weltzien with Backcountry Hunters & Anglers joined the group as well. He says protecting lands from development for hunting and fishing is what brought him to the capital.

"This as an opportunity to protect some vital habitat for mule deer and hunting opportunities for mule deer, and also larger, habitat connectivity for other large game species like bighorn sheep," Weltzien said.

So far, advocates have met with multiple members of California's delegation, including Congressman Ken Calvert.

They're cautiously optimistic, but worry this process has lacked clarity from the federal government.

"We're seeing often conflicting things and a lack of clarity," Weltzien said.

Still, they're hopeful the conversations will lead lawmakers to protecting Chuckwalla.

"The vast majority of Americans, particularly in the west, and for public lands and access to public lands and don't want to see public lands developed. So mostly what we're getting from all the folks that I've met with are very receptive to that meeting and it's a good indication," Weltzien said.