Utah Valley Times

On November 14, 2024, Representative John Curtis (R-UT) expressed his views on the agreement reached between the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration (SITLA) regarding the completion of the Emery County Land Bill of 2018.

Rep. Curtis remarked, “The Emery County Land Bill represents the largest transfer of federal land back to the state in Utah’s history.” He highlighted that this bipartisan effort underscores local communities' ability to manage their lands effectively. Curtis emphasized collaboration over conflict, stating, “This legislation demonstrates what happens when we reject the fake fights and false choices presented by the extremes. Working across the aisle and in concert with local leaders and federal agencies we can achieve results that solve real problems. and I’m pleased we’re a step closer to seeing this bipartisan legislation fully realized.”

Initially introduced in May 2018 by Rep. Curtis along with former Senator Orrin Hatch, the Emery County Public Land Management Act allocates approximately one million acres in Utah’s Emery County for various purposes such as recreation, conservation, development, and grazing. This legislative effort was shaped through extensive community input spanning over two decades.

The bill's objective is to balance public land management through initiatives like a school land trust exchange, expansion of Goblin Valley State Park, designation of conservation areas, and creation of the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area. It has received widespread support from local authorities, state officials like Utah Governor Gary Herbert and Senator Mitt Romney, environmental organizations, and industry stakeholders.

Key provisions include establishing the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area to promote recreational activities; creating Jurassic National Monument; facilitating an exchange involving nearly 100,000 acres of school trust land aimed at generating substantial revenue for Utah's schools; expanding Goblin Valley State Park for improved visitor experience; and setting targeted conservation designations throughout Emery County.