Episode 45: A Deep Dive into the San Rafael Swell

The BLM recently released their preliminary maps for the San Rafael Swell travel plan. We expect a public comment period on this plan soon.

In this episode, Ben and Simone discuss the planning status of the San Rafael Swells in Utah. They provide an overview of the recent developments and the upcoming public comment period. They highlight concerns about road closures and the potential impact on popular trails, particularly for dirt bikers. They also discuss the implications of the Dingell Act and the creation of wilderness areas in the San Rafael Swell. The episode concludes with suggestions for how listeners can prepare for the public comment period and support the Historical Roadways Protection Act. This conversation discusses the potential closure of roads and trails in the San Rafael Swell. The hosts emphasize the importance of public involvement and documentation to protect these routes. They provide a detailed overview of specific roads and trails that are at risk of closure, including their locations and potential impacts. The conversation highlights the need for users to explore and document these routes to gather evidence for legal protection. The hosts also encourage listeners to support the Historic Roadways Protection Act and join organizations that advocate for off-road access.

 

Takeaways

• The San Rafael Swells in Utah are undergoing planning for road closures and trail restrictions.
• The Dingell Act created wilderness areas in the San Rafael Swells and established the San Rafael Swell Recreation Area.
• Cherry-stemmed roads were created to allow for wilderness designation while keeping some roads open.
• The Historical Roadways Protection Act aims to prevent further closures and restrictions in the area.
• Public input and engagement are crucial during the planning process to protect access to popular trails and recreational opportunities. Public involvement and documentation are crucial to protect roads and trails from closure.
• Specific roads and trails in the San Rafael Swell area are at risk of closure, and users are encouraged to explore and document these routes.
• Supporting the Historic Roadways Protection Act and joining organizations that advocate for off-road access can help protect these routes.
• The San Rafael Swell area offers a diverse range of trails and camping spots, and it is important to preserve access for future generations.

In the episode we discuss how the BLM maps aren't useful for comparing the different alternatives they are considering. Here are two great maps that show the hundreds of routes that could be closed by this plan:

Arizona Backcountry Explorers Map: https://maps.azbackroads.com/maps/san-rafael-swell/index.html#7/39.483/-111.088

PLPCO's Map: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/3b4d111082054f3ebf893cd279325c9b/page/Page/?fbclid=IwAR27kC0m_HxXXC-rTMKLLXz8lwI0SurEAMvvAJZoTcPX7gAPAsHut39xnSM

In the episode we made several references to the Dingell Act, and the text can be found here: https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/47/text

If you want to enter our Build Your Dream Rig Sweepstakes and receive a copy of Volume 1 of our Lost Trails Guidebook (while supplies last), use this link: https://www.tapkat.org/blueribbon-coalition/0E73gE?promo=SWELL

If you are interested in volunteering to do field work in the San Rafael Swell, please contact BlueRibbon Coalition here: Contact Us