2024 Election Update: The Future of the Redrock
The November election was, without a doubt, a major setback in our work to protect the redrock wilderness. Much of the progress we’ve achieved—everything from the restoration of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments to stopping new fossil fuel development—is now at risk.
Recent fallout from the election includes President-elect Trump’s selection of North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, an enthusiastic proponent of fossil fuel development, for U.S. Interior Secretary (see recent coverage in the New York Times). And just this week we learned that Utah’s climate-change-denying, anti-wilderness, and anti-monument senator, Mike Lee, will become chairman of the powerful Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee (read SUWA’s statement here).
As we confront the oncoming litany of attacks, SUWA will remain focused on defending the redrock. We will show up every day, whether it’s through legal action, community rallies, or stopping the sure-to-come bad legislation. We have never backed down from a hard fight, and we’re not going to start now.
Goodbyes and Fruitful New Beginnings
As you may have seen online or in one of our recent mailings, SUWA’s longtime Executive Director Scott Groene will be leaving at the end of 2024. Scott has received sincere and touching messages from many of you, and the staff is grateful for your ongoing support. Read Scott’s letter to our members, as well as a message from SUWA Board Chair Tom Kenworthy, at suwa.org/farewelltoscott.
We recognize that this is a significant transition for our organization, but rest assured that our dedicated board of directors is working hard to find a new executive director who will provide strong, steady leadership in the years to come. A nationwide search is underway and the position has been posted on our website at suwa.org/careers. Please share with anyone you know who may be interested!
Members and supporters will be the first to hear about SUWA’s next leader and we look forward to sharing more in the future.
Red Cliffs Saga Takes a Hopeful Turn
The Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released a final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) indicating the BLM’s intent to deny a right-of-way for the proposed four-lane Northern Corridor Highway through Red Cliffs National Conservation Area (NCA) in southwestern Utah near Zion National Park. The proposed route would have violated five bedrock environmental laws and threatened critical habitat for the imperiled Mojave desert tortoise, recreational opportunities, and scenic vistas.
According to the final SEIS, the Northern Corridor Highway is a poor option for the St. George community as it would increase fire probability and frequency, result in permanent loss to designated critical tortoise habitat, spread noxious weeds and invasive plants, and adversely impact the highest number of cultural and historical resources of all considered alternatives.
Unfortunately, longtime highway proponents have now resorted to spreading misinformation. Conserve Southwest Utah, SUWA’s longtime partner in the fight to stop the proposed Highway, has great resources that we encourage you to review, such as “The Truth About Zone 6,” this recent email, and extensive background information.
Photo © Ray Bloxham/SUWA
Land Exchange Finalized for Areas Protected in Emery County Bill
Earlier this month the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced it had finalized a land exchange with the Utah Trust Lands Administration (TLA) for areas protected in the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act of 2019 (Dingell Act).
In a major victory for conservationists, the Dingell Act designated 663,000 acres of BLM-managed wilderness in Emery County, established the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area, added 63 miles of the Green River to the National Wild and Scenic River System, and designated the John Wesley Powell National Conservation Area and the Jurassic National Monument. It also established a process for exchanging the state-owned TLA lands (which are open to development) for lands elsewhere in the state. That process is now complete.
“One of the primary goals of the land exchange between BLM and TLA is to ensure the long-term protection of designated wilderness areas in Emery County,” said SUWA Legal Director Steve Bloch. “The checkerboard pattern of TLA lands within designated wilderness poses a serious threat of development and inconsistent management within those areas and we are encouraged to see this land exchange process get closer to the finish line.”
Adobe © Ray Bloxham/SUWA
New Hats and Merch Bundles—Just in Time for the Holiday Season!
The giving season is here! Celebrate your love for the redrock with something truly special. We’re offering two exclusive new merch bundles in our online store, available while supplies last (or until December 31st). Choose from our Mill Creek Bundle ($70) or Westwater Bundle ($100), each packed with handpicked items inspired by Utah’s redrock wilderness at a $41-$50 dollar savings.
While you’re at it, don’t miss our brand new logo hats available in lightweight nylon and durable canvas (also included in our bundles). At just $35 each, they’re a perfect wardrobe addition for anyone who wants to show their love for Utah wilderness. Whether you’re treating yourself or searching for a thoughtful gift, remember that these deals won’t last long. Order by Friday, December 6th for delivery in time for the holidays.
>> Click here to shop now
Giving Thanks and Preparing for the Work Ahead
As the year approaches its end and we prepare to face the unprecedented challenges ahead, we want to take this opportunity to thank you for standing with us. You are the heart of the Protect Wild Utah movement and your support has been instrumental in preserving the beauty, solitude, cultural heritage, and unique ecosystems of Utah’s redrock wilderness.
Because of you, SUWA has been able to defend public lands in Utah despite the odds being stacked against us. We are deeply grateful for all you do to help ensure that wild places remain intact for future generations.
Giving Tuesday is coming up on December 3rd and we invite you to deepen your support. Make a one-time gift or consider becoming a monthly donor—one of the best ways to help ensure that SUWA has the resources to successfully defend Utah’s wild landscapes in the challenging years ahead. Thank you again for your support!
