We may have thought Sen. Lee’s failed plan to sell off public lands was the last big threat, but as bike shop owners and outdoor recreationists in Moab, my wife and I know we need to stay involved in local and state politics to protect our community’s future.
Now, Congress is targeting land-use plans that guide everything from recreation to energy development on millions of acres of public land. These Resource Management Plans (RMPs), required by the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, take years of work and compromise among ranchers, bikers, miners, boaters, hunters, local officials and business owners.
Here in Moab, our RMP identified the need for singletrack and made it possible to build 150 miles of trail. Those trails not only put Moab on the map as a mountain bike mecca, they also fuel our local economy. Communities across the country are seeing the same benefits as outdoor recreation becomes a mainstream economic driver.
But now Congress is threatening to undo this progress by misusing a little-known law called the Congressional Review Act (CRA). The CRA lets a simple majority throw out entire land-use plans — and once disapproved, the Bureau of Land Management is barred from adopting anything “substantially the same.”
For Moab, that could mean the legal foundation for our trails, campgrounds and recreation assets disappears overnight, creating devastating uncertainty for businesses, residents and visitors.
Utah’s senators often speak out against federal overreach. This is their chance to defend local control. Sen. Curtis, in particular, should oppose the misuse of the CRA and stand with the communities who depend on public lands.
Moab — and towns like it across the West — deserve stability. Our future depends on it.
David Glover, Moab
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