This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2017, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
We have listened to the Legislature and governor talk for years about how the state can do a better job than the federal government in managing public lands. The Republican-dominated Legislature has now passed resolutions hoping to undo presidential actions. Because of the stance of these Utah officials, a major contributor to Utah's economy has decided to pull out of Utah, taking millions of dollars in revenue from both public and private hands.
I want these state officials, beginning with the governor, to please explain clearly and exactly what federal management is doing wrong and how Utah can do a better job of protecting these natural treasures for the benefit of all Americans (they all come here).
Tell us exactly and clearly how Utah can do a better job of managing wildfires, protecting artifacts and natural features, while providing and maintaining reasonable public access.
And explain how the state can do it cheaper.
Don't talk to us about "state's rights." Just tell us how Utah will do it better and cheaper, given that the Utah Legislature can't find the money to adequately fund education, clean up our air, get health care for the poor and fix our roads.
L. Cameron Mosher
Salt Lake City