Written by Julie Johansen
Kenny Ulrich, an archaeologist with the School and Intuitional Trust Lands Administration (SITLA), asked Emery County at the Public Lands Council meeting Tuesday to be the main partner as it prepares to build an interpretation area on the old railroad grade located between Cedar Mountain and Buckhorn Wash.
SITLA plans on building a handrail fence and a kiosk to help preserve and teach about the old railroad grade in that area. The grade was built in the 1880’s and some damage has occurred because of mining exploration in the 1990’s.
The BLM explained that the wild burro drive is coming but has been delayed until early March. It also stated that the travel needs environmental assessment for Joe’s Valley is still being considered.
The Forest Service announced that several seasonal jobs for summer 2016 would be posted in January. Also, it only has about 200 Christmas tree permits available on sale at the Ferron and Price offices, Main Street Market in Ferron and Sutherlands in Price.
DWR representatives reported that the deer status remains constant, and that the lion population is hard to count because they travel so far. Pheasant releases in different areas are giving hunting opportunities and its hope is to re-establish pheasant populations.
State Parks reported that power will be available at campgrounds at Huntington North and gave caution as the ice is beginning to settle in on the reservoirs.
Kelsey Berg, Energy and Natural Resources Advisor for Congressman Jason Chaffetz, explained that the language of Utah Public Lands Initiative in draft form is finished and waiting for release from Congressman Rob Bishop’s office.
County committee members report that the bouldering festival was a success and another is being planned for October next year.
Snow and precipitation totals are currently at about 80% of average as well.