Uintah County issued a press release in response to the Ashley Valley Water & Sewer Improvement District’s July 27th press release(also shared in today’s Basin Now news lineup). The Uintah County press release states, “Uintah County has long recognized Ashley Springs as a vital source of drinking water for the Ashley Valley, and protecting that resource remains a priority. The County also believes source water protection and appropriate public access to Ashley Gorge can coexist. Ashley Valley Water & Sewer Improvement District’s July 27 press release describes the County’s recreation efforts as a “drastic turn” following the 2020 land transfer. The County’s understanding is different. The 2019 John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act directed that the conveyed property be managed as protected open space while also providing for non-motorized public recreation. The County’s development of recreational opportunities, including the Via Ferrata, is consistent with those purposes. The road into Ashley Gorge has long existed as part of the County road system and provides access to County-owned property beyond the District’s land. The County’s recent correspondence sought to formalize a shared-use right-of-way rather than pursue litigation, while allowing the District to continue operating its facilities without interruption. The County recognizes that this issue is important to the District and the community it serves. Uintah County remains willing to continue discussions, including through the Utah Office of the Property Rights Ombudsman, in an effort to reach a mutually acceptable resolution. The correspondence referenced in the District’s press release, together with the supporting documents, is publicly available for anyone who wishes to review the full context. The Uintah County Commission encourages interested parties to contact the Commission to ask questions, share perspectives, or learn more about the matter.”
