I understand that Montezuma County is upset about the master leasing plan (MLP), but having been through the process here in Moab, I think that by the time it is finished, the county may like it.
An MLP is really just a detailed discussion among all stakeholders with the goal of optimizing the landscape to meet everyone’s needs. The master leasing plan process we went through in Moab was very inclusive and our local stakeholders drove the process.
MLPs are a key tool for the recreation community and provide an opportunity for authentic involvement in the BLM planning process. We were able to come together, sit down and create a balanced plan that was a win-win for all involved.
Over the last year in Southwest Colorado, much of the hard work is well underway and there has been significant local stakeholder involvement. The strong local involvement puts the MLP process on a sure footing from the beginning and we applaud the work of the BLM and all stakeholders thus far.
We look forward to working with all involved to develop an MLP in Southwest Colorado that will help the area plan for a strong economic future from both industry and recreation. Given all of the work and progress so far, we believe the MLP process should take just a few months to complete, and we encourage the BLM to begin moving forward as efficiently as possible.
Ashley Korenblat
Moab
Editor’s note: Ashley Korenblat is managing director of Public Land Solutions (www.publiclandsolutions.org).
