Movement is expected to soon be made on Department of the Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke’s recommendations to modify boundaries of national monuments in Utah. In a statement to the press, Governor Herbert explained that President Trump called him on Friday to discuss the recommendations to Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Monuments. “While we do not yet know the specifics of their final plan, I understand from our conversation that any final decision will honor our recommendations,” shares Herbert. “Our recommendations have been, first, that any new boundaries protect the extraordinary antiquities within these areas. Second, that local Native Americans be given meaningful co-management of the lands in the Bears Ears region. And finally, that Congress be urged to pass appropriate protections for federal lands throughout Southern Utah.” President Trump is expected to travel to Utah before the end of the year to announce what changes will be made.
