Lee Bennett Oral History Interview

The interview features Lee Bennett, an archeologist who moved to Monticello, Utah, 36 years ago to work as a district ranger for the Forest Service, initially from Seattle, Washington. She discusses the challenges of living in a rural area like Monticello, particularly the open divisiveness among people regarding land-use values, and her experiences as the first female district ranger in the area. Bennett shares her love for the people and the landscape, especially Elk Ridge, and reflects on the economic shifts in San Juan County from natural resource-based industries to tourism and service. She also addresses the evolution of archeological practices, particularly the increased involvement of tribal entities and the ongoing challenges of housing and community cohesion in Monticello.