A Special Update from SUWA’s Stewardship Team
Over the past week, southern Utah’s skies have been heavy with moisture. The rimrock peeks through a dense layer of clouds as slow, soaking sun showers start and stop. As the days slowly lengthen, our thoughts turn to spring and what is sure to be another productive year in the field.
We’re pleased to announce that our 2024 Stewardship Program season will begin in mid-March! Our full project calendar goes live on Thursday, February 1st, but if you’re a current SUWA member or have previously joined (or applied for) a stewardship project, you’ll receive a special sneak preview of our 2024 project calendar on Monday, January 29th.
If you’re not a current member or past applicant, there’s still time to change that before Monday. Click here to become a member or head over to suwa.org/apply to let us know you’re interested in joining a 2024 project. The Stewardship Crew is excited to spend another year with you protecting the majesty of Utah’s redrock wilderness. See you in the field!
Photos © SUWA
New Year, New Cosponsor Drive!
Our divided Congress has again narrowly avoided a government shutdown—extending funding until early March. Now is the time to let your legislators know you want to see a functioning and funded government—one that recognizes the value of our remaining wild places. America’s Red Rock Wilderness Act would do just that, protecting over 8 million acres of federal lands in Utah as wilderness for future generations.
This visionary legislation aims to safeguard some of our nation’s most awe-inspiring and ecologically significant landscapes—places under near-constant threat from development and exploitation, damage from illegal off-road vehicle use. Adding your voice can make a real difference in protecting these natural treasures.
>> Act Now: Please take a moment today to ask your members of Congress to cosponsor America’s Red Rock Wilderness Act (to see who has already cosponsored, view the current list here).
Photo © SUWA
ORV Groups Challenge Labyrinth Canyon Travel Plan in Federal Court
Just before the new year, motorized recreation groups announced they had filed a lawsuit in federal court challenging the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM’s) final motorized vehicle travel management plan for the Labyrinth Canyon and Gemini Bridges area near Moab in Grand County, Utah. The groups have asked the court for an emergency injunction to block the plan from being implemented.
The long-awaited plan, which will help protect cultural sites, riparian habitat, and the experience of non-motorized recreationists, went into effect on November 28th when an administrative appeals board denied an earlier attempt by the same motorized recreation groups and others to block its implementation.
“We are disappointed but not surprised that the BLM’s balanced decision in the Labyrinth Canyon/Gemini Bridges travel plan has been challenged,” said SUWA Staff Attorney Laura Peterson. “The BLM’s plan takes a thoughtful approach to managing recreation in this popular area; one that will protect the stunning Labyrinth Canyon river corridor and critically important riparian ecosystem while leaving thousands of miles of dirt roads and trails open to motorized use in the greater Moab area. SUWA is confident the plan will withstand scrutiny and intends to intervene to defend BLM’s decision.”
>> Read our full press release
Photo © Tom Till
Protecting the Redrock One Month at a Time
We encourage you to deepen your connection with Utah’s public lands and the Protect Wild Utah movement by joining our Monthly Giving Program. Your monthly contribution will help bolster our efforts year-round and shows your dedication to preserving the unique landscapes that define the Colorado Plateau.
Why Monthly Giving?
- Continuous Impact: Monthly gifts ensure a consistent and reliable source of funding, allowing us to mobilize quickly and tackle time-sensitive conservation challenges effectively.
- Amplifying Your Influence: These donations also allow us to engage in long-term projects, like advocating for legislative protections and organizing grassroots campaigns.
- Flexible and Convenient: Set it up once and adjust your contribution at any time, ensuring continuous support without the hassle of repeated transactions.
Monthly giving is an easy and efficient way to support us! Simply choose the amount and your card will automatically be charged each month (you can adjust the amount or cancel anytime).
>> Click here to become a monthly donor
Photo © Lin Alder
Submit Your Best Valentine-Themed Redrock Lines!
“Roses are red, violets are blue, protecting the redrock is SUCH a romantic thing to do!”
We know our supporters are a passionate and dedicated bunch—but are you also punny or poetic? We’re looking for your best Valentine’s-Day-themed redrock rhymes and puns to turn into digital “cards” we’ll share on social media (and make available for download) on February 14th!
Send your best suggestions to ValentinePuns@suwa.org and make sure you’re following us on social media: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Try to keep your submissions short, snappy, and to the point; we’ll be sure to credit you (first name, last initial) if you’re chosen. You’re welcome to submit as many as you like, though we can’t guarantee we’ll use them all. Submissions are due Friday, February 9th. Bust out those rhyming dictionaries and start sending in your suggestions!
Photo © Tom Till
