The draft was prepared with the assistance of four cooperating agencies, as well as input from the public during scoping phase early in the year. This included involvement from user groups and county governments, Gubbins said. The draft and additional information is available online at www.pricermp.com, where comments and questions can also be posted.

"Having cooperating agencies involved allows the public to get answers to their questions pertaining to special-interest areas of the plan," McCoard said.

Following the comment period, which included the four public information meetings in Castle Dale, Green River, Price and Salt Lake City, McCoard said the bureau will review the comments received and finalize the drafted document. The plan will be developed considering the various alternatives and providing the most suitable plan for the area.

"We want to provide the best management plan to ensure our resources protection, provide public enjoyment, retain energy development and give overall sound, multiple-use management for the area," Gubbins said.

McCoard said the finalized plan should be available in the first quarter of next year. It is the first of seven draft plans that will be released over the next few years as part of a statewide plan revision initiative.

---

E-mail: wleonard@desnews.com