Wilderness Advocates Unhappy with Energy Corridor EIS

None by Eric Ray

(KCPW News) Several public hearings will take place in Salt Lake City today to gather public comments on a draft environmental impact statement to designate energy corridors on federal lands in the West. The corridors would exist in eleven states, including Utah, and are pathways for power lines, as well as gas, oil, and hydrogen pipelines.

Liz Thomas, Field Attorney for the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance, says many of Utah's scenic areas, including Moab, are in the crosshairs of the proposal. She says gaps in the corridors may leave open future government claims of eminent domain or condemnation of some areas. She adds the DEIS includes incomplete information on where future energy sources will be located and if the new corridors are necessary.

Today's public hearings will be held at the Airport Hilton, 5151 Wiley Post Way, in Salt Lake City. The first hearing is scheduled for 2pm to 5pm, followed by a second hearing from 6 to 8pm.

Click here to view the DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

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