LOS ANGELES, CA.- The Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Conservation Lands Foundation applaud President Obama’s designation of the Basin and Range National Monument in central Nevada.

At a time when America’s open spaces are rapidly disappearing, it is encouraging to see President Obama set aside some of Nevada’s most scenic mountains and valleys as the Basin and Range National Monument. “This area is like no place else on earth,” said Brian O’Donnell, executive director of the Conservation Lands Foundation. “With its unspoiled vistas, petroglyphs, and wildlife habitat, the Basin and Range National Monument is an ideal addition to our National Conservation Lands.”

The designation of the Basin and Range National Monument, located about 150 miles north of Las Vegas, protects uniquely American history and culture. The area contains important archaeological sites, 19th-century settlements, Native American trails, and pioneer ranching sites.

Within the boundaries of the National Monument is the largest contemporary Land Art sculpture ever built—City—by acclaimed American artist Michael Heizer. The artist chose the site of Garden Valley within the Basin and Range region for its unmarred public lands. The location is inextricably linked to the monumental work.

“Designating the Basin and Range National Monument achieves two remarkable outcomes—a world-class artwork would endure into the future as it was envisioned, surrounded by sublimely beautiful open country; and a majestic Western American landscape would remain unspoiled for future generations,” commented Michael Govan, CEO and Wallis Annenberg Director of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

The Basin and Range National Monument encompasses several mountain ranges, along with Garden and Coal Valleys, which are distinguished by their remoteness and pristine condition. This area is home to critical plant and wildlife habitat—at least two dozen threatened and sensitive species, including some which are found nowhere outside of Nevada.

The designation is the result of a decades-long effort supported by business leaders, veterans, the archaeology and arts communities as well as outdoor recreation, conservation, and sportsmen’s groups.