By Julie Johansen
United States Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell made a brief stop in Castle Dale on Wednesday.
Secretary Jewell is touring Utah to acquire information and gauge the public pulse about public land issues in Utah. She and members of her staff met with past and present Emery County Commissioners. Also included in the gathering were members of the Public Lands Committee.
Public Lands Administrator Ray Petersen gave a brief history and purpose of the Public Lands Initiative. He brought to Secretary Jewell’s attention the fact that of the three million acres in Emery County only 8% is privately owned, and 78% is managed by the BLM. Petersen stated that the present initiative had its beginning in 2008 after previous legislation failed. The purpose of the PLI is to benefit Emery County and help the federal government with management of the public land in the county. He told of the scoping meetings and transparency used in their process. There is also inclusion of every group involved in the use of this land.
Secretary Jewell asked if this initiative involved multiple counties. The commission answered that following the passage of the public lands legislation of Washington County seven surrounding counties came on board. Former commissioner Randy Johnson told of the pursuit of legislation in 1995. He also reminded Secretary Jewell of the history and heritage of the San Rafael Swell, which includes mining, railroad, grazing, Native American and outlaw history, among others.
BLM Regional Director Neil Kornze then told of his long, congenial association with the leaders in Emery County as well as chiefs of staff from Congressmen Jason Chaffetz’s and Rob Bishop’s offices. He congratulated Emery County for its leadership in the PLI and reported that it should be introduced on Thursday.
Secretary Jewell and her staff left the meeting and were escorted across the desert by county officials. Anticipated stops included the information center on Buckhorn Flat, the Wedge Overlook, pictograph panel in the Buckhorn Wash, swinging bridge and on to the middle of the Swell.
Secretary Jewell will conclude her stay in Utah with another public meeting in Bluff on Saturday with discussion on a potential Bears Ears Monument.