Local Approval for Proposed Monument
One would normally welcome the addition of a new national monument if it were not for a disturbing pattern that seems to emerge whenever the Bush administration makes new decisions on the use of public land (“National Monument in Utah Proposed,” Jan. 29).
The San Rafael Swell in eastern Utah certainly deserves this special recognition, but why is it necessary to have the approval of those who stand to profit from this land before it can be considered?
President Clinton’s creation of Escalante National Monument in southern Utah angered many local oil, mineral and grazing interests, but the majority of Americans overwhelmingly support his decision. If Bush wishes to create his legacy for the American people, he needs to listen to all of them and not just the ones who contributed generously to his campaign.
Alan Coles
Long Beach
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