Reading some more, the Antiquities Act was for specific sites to be protected, it even says small sites in the act. Bears Ear last year was a stroke of the pen change for over a million acres.
The area was actually larger than the entire state of Delaware. I havent visited the area, but what I have read says that the primary historical areas are still under the heavier protection, the fears of mining, are understandable, but most appear unfounded as the largest uranium find in Grand Staircase was going to remain in operation anyway.
Not every square inch can be designated "special".
Our National Parks are a treasure, and I dont believe anyone is suggesting damaging them, but with limited budgets it would seem to make sense to concentrate on the truly spectacular locations wnd put the resources in place to preserve them, and to allow multi uses and maximum freedom in the areas where that is possible.
