On Friday, Dec. 13, the Bureau of Land Management released a draft travel management plan for the San Rafael Desert in Emery County, and it is terrible.
The BLM is prioritizing and rewarding the most impactful of public land uses while marginalizing the most vulnerable: the native plants and animals they are required by law to protect. BLM’s proposal to more than double the miles of routes open to vehicles (including reclaimed and now nonexistent routes) will inevitably increase harm to sensitive soils, wildlife habitat and cultural sites.
Yes, access is important too. Existing roads that are now legally open should remain open so people can enjoy sightseeing and access campsites, trailheads, scenic views and other destinations. However, let’s create a balanced plan that provides for reasonable access but also respects plants and animals and ensures there are places where silence is possible and people can experience wild land for what it is: beautiful, rare and disappearing. The BLM has scheduled a very brief and inconvenient holiday public comment period that closes on Jan. 13. Don’t let your opportunity to comment sneak past you.
Jennifer Fegely
Salt Lake City