What’s In Store for Public Lands this Congress?
We’re about a month and a half into the new Congress and priorities of both the U.S. House and Senate are beginning to coalesce as committees are seated, staff are hired, and legislation is introduced.
With Republicans now in control of the House Natural Resources Committee, we’re likely to see an increase in hearings that tout fossil fuels, privatization of public lands, and extractive industry. On the bright side, we expect America’s Red Rock Wilderness Act to be reintroduced toward the end of March, and we’re sending a team of 55 activists to the nation’s capital to kick off the cosponsorship campaign!
Visit our blog to learn more about the good, bad, and ugly public lands legislation we’re expecting from the 118th Congress this year. It should be a wild ride.
Photo © SUWA
Join Us in the San Rafael Swell and Book Cliffs this Spring!
There are several spaces remaining on a number of our 2023 stewardship projects. Give back to the land this year while camping and communing in some of Utah’s most spectacular wild places!
We’re currently recruiting volunteers for spring projects in the San Rafael Swell and Book Cliffs. Come work with us as we build wilderness boundary fencing and restore public lands impacted by off-road vehicles.
Space is limited, so please register as soon as possible for these early season opportunities at suwa.org/apply. We hope to see you out there in the field!
Photo © SUWA
Black History in Utah: Who Was William Grandstaff?
In observance of Black History Month this year, we bring you the interesting life and times of William Grandstaff, an intrepid Black frontiersman who was one of the first non-Native residents to settle in the Moab valley (circa 1877). Those who have hiked around Moab may be familiar with Grandstaff Canyon, where William reportedly ran cattle for a time. An interpretive sign at the trailhead educates visitors about his life in the area.
According to the Moab Museum, Grandstaff lived for a while in a building he constructed at the modern-day site of Moab Springs Guest Ranch. His namesake canyon was “one of the few in the Moab area that had year-round running water, making it highly desirable ‘real estate’ at a time when the region began to see an influx of cattle ranchers and settlers vying for water and food for their stock.”
Visit the Moab Museum’s website for a fascinating account of Grandstaff’s life before, during, and after his Moab residency.
Photo: Bureau of Land Management
Hot off the Press: SUWA’s 2022 Annual Report
Last year we made progress in defending Utah’s redrock country while laying the groundwork for future gains in public land protection. Our just released 2022 annual report shares the highlights of our advocacy work and the significant achievements your support made possible.
>> Click here to read the report
Protect Wild Utah Beanies Make Great Gifts!
By popular demand, SUWA’s newest beanie, formerly available only with a gift membership purchase, has been added to our online store. This classic knit cap comes in black with a chestnut faux leather “Protect Wild Utah” patch on the cuff.
Order for yourself or give them as gifts. At just $25, they’re perfect for both winter adventures and chilly spring nights in the desert!
Photo © Laura Borichevsky/SUWA
