This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The editorial on the Wasatch Range Recreation Access Enhancement Act is at best factually inaccurate and at worst deliberately misleading ("Talisker Act: Don't sell public land for ski tram," Our View, Nov. 19). This legislation would expand Utah's outdoor recreation economy, curb pollution and reduce traffic along the Wasatch Front.
To say this legislation will receive "no public input whatsoever" is wrong. It will follow normal legislative processes, such as congressional committee hearings. These, and other venues, provide several opportunities for public input.
Second, the bill requires the secretary of Agriculture to follow guidelines established in the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act and other applicable laws.
Third, the 30 acres in question are managed for multiple uses by the Forest Service; they have never been identified by Forest Service experts as needing special federal protection.
Finally, the bill was introduced to diversify Wasatch Front transportation infrastructure and to alleviate traffic congestion in our canyons. It does not authorize ski area expansion.
The project could create more than 500 permanent jobs, reduce traffic and pollution and infuse approximately $50 million into local economies, all while respecting the watershed and adhering to environmental law.
Sen. Orrin Hatch
Sen. Mike Lee
Rep. Rob Bishop
Rep. Jason Chaffetz
Washington, D.C.