UTAH

What changes are arriving with newly approved Bears Ears resource management plan?

Jan 14, 2025, 9:02 PM

The Bears Ears area as seen from Comb Ridge in southern Utah....

The Bears Ears area as seen from Comb Ridge in southern Utah. (Scott G Winterton/Deseret News)

(Scott G Winterton/Deseret News)

SALT LAKE CITY — The Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service approved a resource management plan for Bears Ears National Monument.

“Bears Ears National Monument encompasses vast and diverse objects of historical and scientific interest,” said BLM Acting Utah Director Matt Preston. “This new plan will allow anyone who has a connection to the monument to enjoy the landscape while ensuring respect for the Monument and the unique values it embodies.”

According to the BLM, the plan was developed to balance the protection of the monument’s landscape and cultural resources with recreation, cattle grazing, and gathering plants and firewood. 

The record of decision published on Jan. 14 revealed several changes to the area. They included the establishment of four recreation zones, prohibition of shooting in specific areas, and land allocations. 

Under the new plan, “many” recreational opportunities will remain available within Bears Ears. 

591,185 acres of BLM land within Bears Ears National Monument will be closed to off-roading use. Furthermore, 483,917 acres will be limited to off-roading areas. 

Per the BLM, 97% of currently available grazing areas will continue to be available. 

Additionally, the record of the decision said that six areas of environmental concern were established: 

  • San Juan River
  • Lavender Mesa
  • Shay Canyon
  • Valley of the Gods
  • Indian Creek 
  • Aquifer Protection area 

More information can be found on the BLM’s National Environmental Policy Act Register.

Developing the Bears Ears management plan

The BLM said it received nearly 19,000 comments from members of the public during the planning process. They were taken into consideration as the organization and its partners worked to balance protection with availability. 

“The unwavering dedication of Tribal Nations, partners, local communities, stakeholders, and the public in considering this plan’s direction and focus has been remarkable to witness,” said Barbara Van Alstine, the Manti-La Sal National Forest supervisor. 

Related:What will Trump’s reelection mean for Bears Ears, other Utah public lands?

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Send it to the KSL NewsRadio team here.

Utah

The U.S. Capitol is seen, Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)...

Allessandra Harris Gurr

Privilege tax may be added to the Point of the Mountain

A proposed bill may bring a privilege tax to the Point of the Mountain development.

3 hours ago

FILE: The Utah State Capitol is pictured in Salt Lake City on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025. (Laura Seitz,...

Mariah Maynes

Anglers coalition to host Utah fishing day at Capitol

Utah Anglers Coalition is set to host a day highlighting Utah fishing at the state capitol.

14 hours ago

A screenshot of the Utah Avalanche Center website shows the approximate location of the Silver Fork...

Mariah Maynes

Recovery efforts for one dead skier continue following Silver Fork avalanche

Utah Avalanche Center asked backcountry users to stay out of the East Bowl after Saturday's Silver Fork avalanche.

19 hours ago

Fresh snow in Franklin Basin on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024. A young snowmobiler went missing while sn...

Kennedy Camarena

14-year-old snowmobiler found after overnight search

Search and rescue teams are searching for a young snowmobiler who went missing while with his family and friends.

1 day ago

Salt Lake County Search and Rescue responds to an avalanche fatality in Big Cottonwood Canyon on Sa...

Becky Bruce

Avalanche danger to remain “considerable” across Utah, forecaster says

Forecasters expect "considerable" avalanche danger for at least a couple more days, after an active weekend for slides.

1 day ago

Dutch Draw (Summit County Sheriff's Office)...

Diana Jones

Avalanche at Dutch Draw buries skier, quickly rescued

On Saturday, three skiers were caught in an avalanche and Dutch Draw. 

2 days ago

Sponsored Articles

Full speed through the snow. A man on skis is pulled by his through the snow at full gallop Skijori...

Bear Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau

Get ready for an unforgettable skijoring adventure in Bear Lake!

“Skijoring the Bear” takes place this year on February 21-22 in Garden City, Utah.

the bedroom in a geodesic dome shows the night sky...

Clear Sky Resorts Bryce Canyon

Your front row to an extraordinary cosmos show

As America's first glass dome stargazing resort, Clear Sky Resorts Bryce Canyon is one of the world’s most unique and spectacular places to stay.

2 people huddled up in a blanket and warm clothes sipping hot chocolate...

Bear Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau

The best ways to spend your Christmas vacation in Bear Lake

If you're dreaming of a white Christmas this year, Bear Lake should definitely be on your radar. Read this guide for more!

big crowd of people under holiday lights in an outdoor market...

Western Nut

Our favorite family Christmas activities in Utah

We gathered up a list of our favorite activities, movies, and treats to try this holiday season that the whole family can enjoy.

an IT tech looks at a laptop in front of a server network...

Comcast Business

Tips to protect yourself from phishing attacks

Check out this resource from Comcast Business to learn more about phishing attacks and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim of one.

A surprise gift, wrapped and ready to bring holiday cheer! Whether for Christmas, a birthday, or an...

Western Nut

10 Holiday Gift Ideas to cover everyone on your list

This guide is for you if you need holiday gift ideas that will make a lasting impression. 

What changes are arriving with newly approved Bears Ears resource management plan?