Utah Approves Coal Leasing Near National Parks: Deseret News
Recent developments in coal leasing in Utah have raised concerns among environmentalists and conservationists. The Interior Department has identified 13 million acres of federal land for coal leasing, with 48,000 acres located in Utah, some of which are near national parks.
Coal Leasing Near National Parks
The Trump administration’s late September decision to open this land for coal leasing emphasizes increased coal production across the nation. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated that the initiative aims to stimulate economic growth and job creation. He highlighted a policy shift that includes reducing royalty rates and increasing available leasing areas.
Land Designation History
Under the Bush administration in 2008, many Utah parcels were labeled unsuitable for coal mining. However, the current allocation places attention on lands close to popular destinations such as Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Capitol Reef National Parks. The Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance (SUWA) has pointed out that the newly available tracts are in close proximity to these renowned parks, even citing that some are just a mile away.
- Proximity of coal leasing areas to national parks:
- Capitol Reef National Park – directly adjacent
- Bryce Canyon National Park – approximately one mile away
- Zion National Park – about one-and-a-half miles distant
Local Reaction and Concerns
Conservation advocates have expressed outrage over the decision. Steve Bloch, legal director for SUWA, criticized the choice to lease land near such prestigious national parks. He described the move as “astonishing” and disconnected from public sentiment regarding federal lands.
According to Bloch, these lands carry immense cultural and environmental significance, with a history of being protected from development. Cory MacNulty of the National Parks Conservation Association echoed similar concerns, asserting that coal mining near these sites is an outdated approach.
Reasons Behind the Coal Leasing Initiative
The coal leasing decision stems from executive orders aimed at increasing natural resource extraction. Although the move was not directly initiated by the White House, it was included in legislation that compels the Interior Department to lease federal land for recoverable coal resources.
- Key points from the legislative directive:
- Lease known recoverable coal resources of at least 4 million acres.
- Exclusions include sensitive areas like National Conservation Areas.
Future of Coal Leasing in Utah
Applications for coal leases will be initiated by private entities, allowing them to express interest in specific parcels of land. However, previous coal sales, such as the recent lease sale in Montana, have seen minimal interest, raising questions about the viability of leasing in Utah.
As discussions continue, conservationists remain vigilant about the potential implications for the integrity of national parks. The prospect of nearby coal mines casts doubt on the experience visitors can expect within these cherished landscapes.
