Tomorrow, a hearing will be held on H.R. 1925, America's Red Rock Wilderness Act of 2009. The act, which was introduced by Representative Maurice Hinchey (D-NY), would impact a number of OHV recreation areas in the red rock canyons of the Colorado Plateau and Great BasinDeserts of Utah. Most notably, the off-road haven of Moab has come under the crosshairs of H.R. 1925. Should the act make it past the president, Moab and other OHV areas in pre-selected regions would be granted Wilderness status, making them off limits to OHV and ATV riders, mountain bikers, and horseback riders.
A look through THOMAS revealed the act had 136 cosponsors from the House of Representatives. Of the 136 cosponsors, there were zero from Utah (there are three Utah representatives) and one from Colorado (there are seven Colorado representatives). Of Utah and Colorado’s fellow Rocky states, there were no supporters from Wyoming (one representative), Idaho (two representatives), and Montana (one representative). There was one supporter from New Mexico (three representatives). Conversely, the majority of the cosponsors hailed from California, Illinois, Massachusetts, and New York.
While the act was introduced for “the benefit of present and future generations of Americans,” there is no doubt this piece of legislation has drawn very clear battle lines. Whether you want to voice your opinion in support or opposition to H.R. 1925, the best method is to contact your Representative.
For those in opposition to H.R. 1925, visit the link below to send a letter to your Representative telling them to vote No on the bill:
Thanks to 4Wheel & Off-Road Web Editor Jason Gonderman for the heads up.