[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 122 (Thursday, July 2, 2020)]
[Senate]
[Page S4214]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO RAY PETERSEN

 Mr. ROMNEY. Mr. President, I rise to congratulate Mr. Ray 
Petersen on a remarkable career of indispensable service to the great 
State of Utah. By virtue of Ray's enduring commitment to overseeing 
proper land management practices, Emery County flourishes with beauty 
and opportunity. The residents of Emery County and the countless 
visitors who enjoy the region have Ray to thank for his 18 years as 
Emery County's Public Lands Administrator and his lifetime of public 
service to rural Utah.
  Ray has dedicated his career to addressing critical rural issues. As 
a fourth-generation resident of Emery County, Ray understands well the 
challenges facing rural communities and the profound impact that 
Federal, State, and local policy decisions have on the livelihoods of 
so many. In his role as Emery County Public Lands Administrator, Ray 
was consequential in assisting policymakers, from the county commission 
to the Federal Government, reconcile differences and find solutions for 
the county's land management, whose expansive plans fall heavily under 
State and Federal domain.
  Sustained opportunity and access to Emery County's lands are 
paramount for its economic vitality, particularly to its agriculture, 
recreation and tourism industries, and its local mining, gas, and oil 
development. Ray has helped these key local industries navigate the 
challenges and opportunities of land management issues, to find 
compromise and success.
  A fitting final accomplishment to his career, Ray was instrumental in 
helping Utah's congressional delegation secure a victory for Emery 
County and the State's public lands as the Emery County Public Lands 
Management Act was signed into law. This legislation marked the 
culmination of years of collaboration and cooperation with local 
partners and officials, ensuring ongoing uses will be enjoyed in Emery 
County without fear of a potential national monument designation from 
DC and consolidation of Utah trust lands that will generate millions in 
revenue for our school kids. It also included long-sought local land 
transfers to meet city government needs while expanding Goblin Valley 
State Park, a truly unique place that will now be better managed for 
future generations.
  Ray Petersen has championed rural lands issues of extraordinary 
significance to Utah throughout his esteemed career. Our great State 
owes him a debt of gratitude for three decades of selfless public 
service.
  Thank you, Ray.

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