The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is moving quickly to approve a large, developed campground at Beas Lewis Flat, just west of Capitol Reef National Park. With the area’s stunning redrock views, celebrated dark skies, and remarkable natural and cultural resources, dispersed camping at Beas Lewis Flat and several other places along State Route 24 is understandably popular with visitors and locals.

Unfortunately, relatively unmanaged recreation use has resulted in the proliferation of human waste and trash, degraded ecological and cultural resource conditions, and a decline in quality recreation and camping experiences.

We agree that the BLM must address these issues, and we support the agency’s efforts to protect sensitive resources and improve public health and safety. However, the proposed heavy-handed and unilateral action to construct a large, developed campground will not fix the issues facing this area. Instead, collaborative management of ballooning recreation use and impacts at Beas Lewis Flat and along State Route 24 is necessary.

The BLM is accepting public comments through Wednesday, September 17th. Please tell the agency to rethink this plan to protect resources, public health, and safety.

In your comments, urge the agency to consult and collaborate with the local communities, user groups, and other land management agencies to develop a proactive and holistic approach for the long-term management of this heavily used recreation area.

This is an ideal time and opportunity to start an effective collaborative process and an important first step would be for the agency to conduct a public field tour. Encourage the BLM to do so, and to rethink recreation management at Beas Lewis Flat and along State Route 24.

Thank you for speaking up for Beas Lewis Flat!