Fair shake for Utahns

The recent PBS series by Ken Burns, "The National Parks: America's Best Idea," reinforced my appreciation for the natural treasures of Utah and America. The action to re-evaluate proposed oil and gas leases in Utah by Interior Secretary Ken Salazar was in compliance with the theme of the Ken Burns series.

It demonstrates an understanding of the importance of balancing the nation's energy needs with steps to protect our air quality and scenic national parks and monuments such as Arches and Canyonlands.

The BLM report released last week green lights mineral leasing on 17 of 77 parcels but also removes eight parcels to protect our national parks and encourages air quality reviews of others. This should please a growing number of my constituents who have an increasing interest in air quality. That is a fair shake for the health of Utah residents and our diverse economy, which increasingly includes tourism.

Rep. Sheryl Allen

Bountiful