Native Americans press Biden to designate three new national monuments in California

Native American -led coalition is pushing Biden administration to designate three new national monuments in California .

Some fear the chance to protect these areas from mining, drilling and logging could be jeopardized after President-elect Donald Trump takes office.

The lands being sought for monument status encompass more than 1.2 million acres .

Chuckwalla proposal will wipe out more than 350 small-scale mining claims, disabled veterans say.

Another coalition is seeking monument status for an area known as Sáttítla that extends over parts of the Shasta-Trinity , Klamath and Modoc national forests.

Industry groups representing loggers, mills, private timberland owners, biomass energy producers and others claim the designation would lead to heightened wildfire risk.

Advocates say setting them aside now will provide a bulwark against potential attacks.

Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-Indio) is confident Biden will act on Chuckwalla , which has an established campaign and widespread approval.

He’s hopeful that a proclamation will arrive in November , which is Native American Heritage Month .