[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 93 (Friday, June 29, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1248]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           IN HONOR OF OUR EMERY COUNTY PUBLIC LANDS COUNCIL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CHRIS CANNON

                                of utah

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 28, 2001

  Mr. CANNON. Mr. Speaker, throughout the prosperous history of this 
great state, our ancestors valued harmony between community growth and 
preservation of resources. We are encircled by beautiful landscapes and 
enjoy the ability to find escape and solace in the vast mountains, 
meandering rivers, or immense desert lands. Utah's natural beauty and 
rich resources demand a careful balance between protection and growth 
of competing interests.
  The Emery County Commissioners, along with the citizens of Emery 
County, responded to the need for a thoughtful, responsible, and 
cooperative effort in planning wise land management policy within the 
county. In an effort to provide a forum for all interested parties to 
voice their concerns and influence policy, an invitation was extended 
to elected representatives, federal and state land management agencies, 
county citizens, and individuals representing various recreational land 
user and environmental groups to establish the Emery County Public 
Lands Council. Their charge was to find the best possible solution for 
managing lands within Emery County's boundaries, while setting aside 
their differences to become a united and cohesive voice.
  The Emery County Public Lands Council soon learned that it agrees on 
more issues than earlier anticipated. All groups express an earnest 
aspiration to safeguard the San Rafael Swell. As so ably spoken by 
County Commissioner Randy Johnson, ``Environmentalists share with Emery 
County a great desire to protect the lands of the San Rafael, but 
differ philosophically over what kinds of management should be 
implemented.'' Every stakeholder possesses a deep commitment to protect 
the San Rafael Swell and safeguard its matchless and distinctive 
qualities for posterity. Members of the Council advocate for local 
users and work with federal and state agencies to develop a public 
lands strategy. They contribute to land use planning to guarantee 
cooperation among these eclectic bodies and Emery County interests.
  In our quest for a united effort to safeguard and protect our land 
for thoughtful use and community stability, I recognize the need for a 
joint endeavor to accomplish our objectives. I commend the Emery County 
Public Lands Council for acting as a model for all counties, states, 
and individuals who desire to preserve our nation's beautiful natural 
resources.

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