Skip Interest Selector

Show My Interests 


Help Save the Prehistoric "Art Gallery" of Nine Mile Canyon 

Nine Mile Canyon Panel
Nine Mile Panel.  Copyright Dan Miller.
In a move that would essentially destroy Nine Mile Canyon, renowned for its ancient cultural sites and truly amazing pictographs, the Bill Barrett Corporation is seeking approval from the BLM to expand its drilling operation from the 100 wells it now operates, to at least 800 more.  This would result in 80,000 pound tankers traveling up and down the narrow Nine Mile Canyon road every day.

Even with the 100 existing wells it now operates, the Bill Barrett Corporation is causing significant damage to the canyon. For example, the chemicals the company sprays on the road to keep dust down are corroding the ancient rock art.  In addition to the tremendous damage to Nine Mile Canyon, the expansion of this drilling project will result in drilling operations in wilderness study areas, harming flora and fauna, and irreparably scarring the land.

Now is the time to make our voices in opposition to this disastrous proposal heard.  The BLM will be accepting comments on its West Tavaputs Plateau drilling proposal at public meetings the week of March 11, 2008.  These meetings will be an excellent opportunity to learn more about the project and discuss your concerns with agency staff, SUWA members, and other members of the public.  All meetings will be held from 5-8 pm:

March 11, Roosevelt, Classroom Building, Utah State University, 987 Lagoon Street
March 12, Price, Holiday Inn, 838 Westwood Blvd
March 13, Salt Lake City, Main Library, 210 E. 400 South

Please speak out to protect Nine Mile Canyon!  The comment deadline on the draft environmental impact statement is May 1, 2008. Call our Salt Lake City office with questions: (801) 486-3161.