Curtis co-sponsors bill to regulate climbing on federal land

SALT LAKE CITY — Rep. John Curtis, R-Utah, and Congressman Joe Neguse, D-Colo, introduced the Protect America’s Rock Climbing Act in Washington DC this week. The legislation would look to preserve popular climbing spots on federal land.

In a press release about the legislation, Curtis said the act would cover three main points:

• Climbing should be compatible with its natural setting.
• The government should get public input before making “significant” changes to climbing access.
• Agencies should have the authority to protect natural resources, public health and safety.

Executive director of Salt Lake Climbers Alliance Julia Geisler said climbers across the country are enthusiastic about managing the land used in the sport.

Geisler said this act would allow appropriate maintenance for climbing areas that benefit both climbers and wildlife.

“We have a lot of wilderness along the Wasatch Front that’s very urban interfaced that does need maintenance.” 

The act is also of particular interest to Utahns, as climbing has boomed in the state.

“Salt Lake City has become the climbing capital of the country. Especially with USA Climbing moving here and the number of climbing gyms. Just the magnificent access we have,” Geisler said.

A Washington committee now has to hear the bill.