On a bluff east of the Jordan River, at approximately 13500 South, the Galena property in Draper. That's where Utah's future -- FrontRunner commuter rail -- and Utah's past -- an American Indian archaeological site -- could collide.

It doesn't have to happen. If the wishes of Utah's five Native American tribes are honored, the state-owned property will be preserved in perpetuity. Tribal leaders, at a press conference last week, called on Utah governor-in-waiting Gary Herbert to save the site from development. He should.

The 230-acre parcel is believed to be an ancient Indian ruin where agriculture was first practiced in the Great Basin 3,000 years ago. It is also one of four sites being considered by the Utah Transit Authority for a commuter rail station and a related transit-oriented housing development.

Preserving the land for archaeological exploration, and as public open space with access to the Jordan River Parkway trail system, is essential. But so is the UTA's FrontRunner extension project to Utah County, which will reduce traffic congestion on Interstate 15 as well as air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions along the Wasatch Front.

Fortunately, for the sake of history, ecology, archaeology and the heritage of Utah's Native American tribes, the collision can be avoided. Herbert, and/or the Legislature have the opportunity to nudge UTA out of the way. They should.

The tract was once slated for preservation. Nearly a

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decade ago the Legislature ordered the state Department of Natural Resources to execute a permanent conservation easement for the property, which would be managed by the Utah Open Lands organization. The agreement was ready for signatures when former state Rep. Greg Curtis intervened on behalf of a developer, who wanted to swap another parcel for the state land.

That developer has stepped aside but another stepped forward, and the Legislature this year authorized, but did not require, the DNR to make the trade if the UTA and developer select the 13500 South site. While the site would be ideal for much-desired transit-centered development, the station and housing would still be built elsewhere if the state opts to preserve the land.

"This site is considered sacred ground to Native Americans," said Rupert Steele, tribal chairman of the Confederated Goshutes. "Utah has always respected our heritage."

And Utah should continue to respect that heritage. Herbert, as his first order of business as governor, should order the DNR to execute the conservation easement.