Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument celebrates 25 years of conservation

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) - A quarter-century of protecting one of the Coachella Valley's most recognizable landscapes is being celebrated Friday as the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument marks its 25th anniversary year.

The monument, established by Congress on October 24, 2000, protects approximately 280,000 acres of desert landscapes, mountain forests, wildlife habitats, and culturally significant sites.

Friday's celebration at the monument's visitor center in Palm Desert brings together community members, conservation leaders, and those who helped establish the protected land more than two decades ago.

The event features guided hikes, educational programs, family activities, and a special time capsule installation recognizing the milestone.

But beyond the celebration, questions remain about what the next 25 years could look like for the monument as the Coachella Valley continues to grow.

News Channel 3's Raymond Kalra is speaking with those who helped shape the monument's history, local leaders, and visitors about what protecting this land has meant for the region and the challenges that could lie ahead.

Watch the full report tonight on News Channel 3.