Some of the affected property is in close proximity to Arches and Canyonlands national parks, Dinosaur National Monument and Nine Mile Canyon. Given that proximity, Salazar said, it was of concern to him that the Bush administration rushed to develop land that is on the "doorstep of some of our nation's most treasured landscapes."

Salazar said his agency will take a "fresh look" at the parcels and did not rule out the possibility that some of them may be offered for bid in the future if they are deemed appropriate for oil and gas development.

A bevy of environmental groups pushed the Obama administration to void December's auction, which actor Robert Redford termed as "morally criminal."

Environmentalists called Salazar's decision a reflection of "common sense and reverence for America's natural heritage."

A statement released by Earthjustice said canceling the auction is a good first step.

"We need a more balanced and legal approach to our natural resources and Salazar has started fixing these problems but there are many more that will also require the administration's attention," said Robin Cooley, an attorney with the group.

But petroleum industry representatives said the decision runs counter to the Obama administration's energy goals and predicted the action will have a "chilling effect" on Utah's economy.

The Independent Petroleum Association of Mountain States said there was nothing "last minute" or "rushed" in the decision to offer the parcels for bid. It argues the auction was the result of a seven-year process in which ample planning and public input was sought.

"It is hard to imagine why the administration would come out with policies that limit economic development in Utah. A lease sale is an economic stimulus to the state and federal government," the association said.

Salazar's decision has no impact on the U.S. Attorney's review of DeChristopher's case. DeChristopher earned national attention and a brief time in handcuffs when he bid on land out of protest despite his lack of cash.

DeChristopher, too, concedes the Wednesday decision has no bearing on his case, but believes his actions were still worth it.

"I am encouraged by it because it protects land, but it doesn't protect me."

DeChristopher, 27, has admitted to bidding to run up the value of some parcels. He "won" 13 parcels of land, but said he had no intention of paying for them. No criminal charges have been filed.

E-mail: amyjoi@desnews.com