Mormon Antagonism and the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge: A Complex Historical Context
The Bundy-led militia takeover of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in 2016 is not just a fluke; it ties into a broader narrative of historical antagonisms between Mormons and the U.S. government. While this conflict seems to be about land and regulations, it reveals deeper layers of cultural and historical tensions.
The Context of Land Ownership and Usage
At the core of the conflict is a dispute between some Mormon tenant ranchers who operate in the arid Western deserts and the federal government. The land in question is federal territory, specifically the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, which has been under federal control since Nevada and Utah became states. However, the tenant ranchers have a long history of leasing this land, and over time, it has become closely associated with their sense of ownership and identity.
The acquisition of land in the U.S. is a complex process. When a state is formed from a federal territory, the federal government retains much of the land. Typically, the federal ownership stands at around 50%, with a minority held by private entities and the rest by the state government. Over time, the federal government administers these lands in various ways based on their desirability. Many lands were given away during the Homestead Act, but much of the remaining land is intended for conservation, recreation, and specific governmental needs. In the process, a checkerboard pattern of ownership emerges across the Western United States.
specific Land Areas and their Uses
A map of the Western states, such as Utah, illustrates this checkerboard pattern clearly. For example, Pink areas represent DoD bases or test ranges, green is for National Forests, orange for Indian reservations, purple for National Parks, royal blue for state land, and yellow for BLM land. Grey areas indicate private ownership. Notice how much BLM and state land is scattered in small plots across the landscape. Some states have consolidated these plots into larger blocks for easier management or development, but this has not been possible in areas like those where the Bundys are based.
The BLM land in question is primarily of little economic value, suitable only for limited agricultural, recreational, or conservation uses. It is home to desert tortoises, coyotes, and old archaeological sites, and is popular among those who enjoy riding on dirt bikes and ATVs. These users have developed a strong attachment to the land and a desire to maintain their freedom to use it as they see fit. This stance is fueled by a perception that the land is meant for their use, in contrast to what they see as external restrictions.
Political Motivations and Constituent Support
The issue of controlling this land has become a hot-button political topic. Politicians on both sides of the aisle may find support in backing the claims of the tenant ranchers, as it can boost their popularity and increase their electoral prospects. However, the situation is further complicated by the specific political leanings of the involved parties. While the modern Salt Lake City LDS Church is not directly involved, the tension is more directed at individual politicians and groups who hold the reins of power.
The LDS Church, given its large following and political influence, must navigate this situation carefully. They have spoken out against the Bundy-led militia when they invoked religious references, as this could be seen as drawing the church into a politically sensitive situation. The LDS Church has more than enough public relations issues to deal with and has wisely decided to stay out of the conflict. The Bundys, on the other hand, have largely alienated themselves from the broader community and the process of law.
The Outcome and Future Implications
The outcome of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge situation highlights the dire consequences faced by those who engage in unauthorized land use. The federal government's decision to intervene was critical, and it set a precedent for future law enforcement actions against similar protests and occupations. The Bundys and their supporters now face significant legal penalties, including felony charges, which carry severe restrictions on their ability to own or use firearms.
For a rancher who operates in the West, firearms are essential for protection, hunting, and managing livestock. The restrictive nature of the punishments means that the Bundys have severely damaged their ability to engage in traditional ranching practices. This conflict has resulted in a significant blow to the economic and social security of the Bundys and their community, making it clear that their actions have more negative repercussions than they initially imagined.
In conclusion, the Bundy-led militia takeover of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge is not just a local issue but a reflection of broader historical and cultural tensions. The dispute over this land is embedded in a complex web of political, economic, and social factors that have shaped the identity and rights of both the tenant ranchers and the federal government.