ID SJM102

President Calvin Coolidge designated Craters of the Moon National Monument in 1924 with the intent to eventually make it a national park, and Idaho remains the only western state without a national park.

Craters of the Moon is the largest young basaltic lava field in the continental United States and serves as an outstanding outdoor classroom attracting thousands of students annually.

Redesignating the 54,000 acres of Craters of the Moon National Monument (as it existed prior to 2009) as a national park would increase visitor numbers and enhance economic development in Butte County, Blaine County, and surrounding areas.

The redesignation would not affect land use including hunting, grazing, multiple land uses, park boundaries, funding, management, or park fees.

The Idaho Legislature urges Congress to pass legislation redesignating Craters of the Moon National Monument as Craters of the Moon National Park and directs the Secretary of the Senate to forward this memorial to Congress and Idaho's congressional delegation.