The Wasatch backcountry is being set up for some massive changes. From One Wasatch to the Mountain Accord, the terrain we tour in will either be protected, sucked into resort expansion, or both. The Wasatch Backcountry Alliance needs our help to get the message out to backcountry users and is asking for trailhead volunteers.
That message is one of participation. With so much uncertainty, it’s very important that our voices be heard, and to unify as a backcountry community to show the decision-makers that we exist, we matter, and we have a voice that’s just as valid as the more commercial interests at work on the Cottonwood Canyons. One way of doing that is by talking to backcountry users at various trailheads in the Wasatch and encouraging them to join in on the Mountain Accord discussion.
According to the Wasatch Backcountry Alliance, outreach efforts to other backcountry users about the future of the Wasatch is very important. They say volunteers don’t need an intimate knowledge of all the issues, just a willingness to talk to people and encourage them to visit the Wasatch Backcountry Alliance website and get involved in the Mountain Accord process.
If you are interested, send an email to: info@wasatchbackcountryalliance.org
In addition, there are other steps you can take to stay informed and involved to protect backcountry recreation in the Central Wasatch. First, review the Mountain Accord proposals, especially the Expanded Cottonwood Canyons Task Force Proposal. For backcountry users, this is the pivotal piece of the Blueprint, outlining a series of land swaps that would permit expanded resort development and protect key backcountry areas and access.
Be sure to send them a comment about your support or concerns about the proposal as it now stands. The Mountain Accord is taking public comment by email at comment@mountainaccord.com. The deadline is March 16.