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SALT LAKE CITY -- Interior Secretary Ken Salazar will visit Utah. It's not often that a secretary of the interior takes on a visit like this, and especially now, in a strong anti-federal government climate.
Gov. Gary Herbert made the announcement Thursday morning. Herbert says Salazar will attend Monday's Balanced Resource Council meeting -- that's a diverse group concerned with public land policy, water and air quality.
There are specific concerns about public land use. For example, the sharp differences over permits for drilling, ongoing issues with access to wilderness areas and more.
When Salazar comes to Utah, he's sure to get an earful; but the governor says the dialogue will be healthy.
"I think it's indicative of the fact that we're looking for solutions and finding common ground, instead of the shrill rhetoric and animus that's been built up over time," Herbert said. "I think that's counterproductive."
"He'll hear the Utah point of view," said Ted Wilson, chairman of the Balanced Resource Council. "It may not be comfortable for him in every way, but he'll hear it. We'll work diplomatically with him to achieve what we think is important, and that's what this meeting is all about."
In addition to Wilson, other members of the Balanced Resource Council include Rep. Mike Noel, R-Kanab, and San Juan County commissioner Lynn Stevens; both are outspoken advocates for states' rights and could hit Salazar up with some sharp questions.
The public is also invited to the meeting. Environmental groups like the Sierra Club and Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance are expected to round out the meeting with Salazar as well.
E-mail: rpiatt@ksl.com
