Governor Huntsman Threatens Utah's Natural Treasures Utah claims itself as the 'outdoor recreation capital of America' -- but Governor Jon Huntsman is now threatening the many wild places that provide these unique recreational opportunities. The governor is drafting a petition that would remove protections from all of Utah's undeveloped roadless national forests, leaving them vulnerable to road construction, logging, mining and natural gas exploration and drilling. We need your help. Let Governor Huntsman know that America's citizens and outdoor businesses want complete protection for these last pristine areas. Utah contains over 4 million acres of roadless areas in eight national forests. These areas offer unparalleled recreational opportunities and represent enormous economic value to outdoor recreation businesses not only in Utah, but all over the country. Currently these wild areas are protected under the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, but the governor's petition would allow commodity interests access to these pristine public lands. To pledge your support for protecting Utah's roadless national forests, please send the letter below to Governor Huntsman.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

Dear Governor Huntsman:

I'm writing you today to ask that you do not petition the U.S. Forest Service to open Utah's national roadless forests to development. These untouched areas provide unparalleled recreational opportunities and contribute almost $7 billion to the economy of Utah. Outdoor businesses and recreation enthusiasts alike rely on the protection of these areas for hiking, camping, hunting, fishing and countless other backcountry recreational activities. Additionally, Utah's roadless areas are critical sources for clean drinking water and provide habitat for hundreds of plant and animal species.

Utah's roadless areas are an important part of our natural heritage and future generations of Americans depend on us to keep these areas pristine. Removing important protections for roadless areas jeopardizes Utah's legacy as the outdoor recreation capital of America.

By maintaining roadless protections, you will ensure the economic and ecological health of some of Utah's most valuable recreational treasures and the communities and businesses that depend on them. We ask that you not move forward with any plans to remove existing protections and not submit a petition that opens up these undeveloped roadless areas for commodity development.

Thank you for consideration of my letter.

Sincerely,

Signed by:

Campaign Launched:
January 26, 2007