This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2017, and information in the article may be outdated.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.
Utah is a great place to visit, but you wouldn't want to live here if you care about the environment.
My husband and I fell in love with the natural beauty of this state and purchased a home in St. George in 2007. We eventually bought a Jeep to explore remote areas like Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
We are horrified to learn that Gov. Gary Herbert and most Utah legislators opposed the creation of Grand Staircase-Escalante and the newly designated Bears Ears National Monument and have urged President Donald Trump to eliminate or shrink these protected areas.
Growing up on the East Coast, residents feel entitled to own their own home or business property, but we don't feel entitled to public lands. The mindset in Utah appears much different. Some Utahns not only assume ownership of their own property, they feel entitled to unlimited use of public lands as well.
My husband and I have traveled extensively in southern Utah, and we never cease to be amazed at the unique and rugged beauty of this state. We meet visitors from all over the world who come to admire the gorgeous and other-worldly scenery. Unfortunately, many Utahns don't share this perspective.
Mari Marinakis
Ivins