This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Unfortunately, the assertion made by Wayne Crawford ("If we don't want federal control, why Mountain Accord?" May 15) stems from misrepresentation of the accord and biased personal interest.
While his central concern is the "[addition of] more layers of federal control," he irresponsibly misinterprets the transition involved. In reality, the entirety of the land he refers to is already under National Forest Service protection. The accord will simply alter its designation to a National Conservation and Recreation Area — promising heightened protection of the land and the watershed.
And while Crawford describes "local leaders…. quietly push[ing] for more federal control," the development of the Mountain Accord has been neither quiet nor exclusive, rather an intentional collaboration between conflicting community interests. Conservationists, resort representatives and private landowners alike have been involved in the process, contributing to a strong consensus that satisfies all parties.
While Crawford's position in Cardiff Canyon Owners Association may provide context for this article's motivation, it is ultimately inaccurate.
Kate Hansen
Salt Lake City