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The Nine Mile Canyon deal that was so ceremoniously signed recently by a host of interested parties is certainly laudable and deserving of the attention it received. The ultimate success of the agreement, though, can only be measured by how it is implemented.
The canyon east of Price, of course, is noted for its archaeological treasures, including more than 10,000 prehistoric rock carvings. By signing the agreement, the Denver-based Bill Barrett Corporation is now formally committed to protecting those treasures as it moves forward with large-scale natural gas drilling in the area.
Good for them! The natural gas they'll be extracting will play a significant role in the region's economic future.
They should know, though, that the people of Utah through the watchful eyes of environmentalists and others who also signed the agreement will be monitoring what takes place in the canyon. If any damage appears to be occurring, adjustments in the gas-extraction operation will have to be made.
KSL appreciates the uniqueness of the agreement. It shows how people with widely divergent views can come together for the common good. And we take the Bill Barrett Corporation at their word - that their operation will leave "that rock art in as good a shape as (they) found it."
