The Be In The Know series launched its first event in Blanding to share critical information with individuals interfacing with visitors to the county. The forum featured panelists from various land management agencies and UDOT, covering topics ranging from road closures to new visitor services.
Tedd Neff of the USFS Manti-La Sal National Forest shared upcoming plans for the area, noting that the Forest Service website provides updates on campground closures and prescribed burns. Jake Palma of the BLM Monticello Field Office discussed managing Bears Ears National Monument, clarifying that day use permits are required at trailheads for most areas, with a maximum group size of 12 people.
Palma also announced that the BLM will begin staffing Visitor Contract Representatives at locations including the Monticello BLM Field Office, Kane Gulch Ranger Station, Edge of the Cedars State Park, and Sand Island. Additionally, overnight permits can be obtained via recreation.gov by searching for Cedar Mesa Permits.
Chris Hanson, manager of Edge of the Cedars and Goosenecks State Parks, reported on budget needs for climate control at Edge of the Cedars to protect Ancestral Puebloan artifacts. He also noted that Goosenecks State Park is working toward an International Dark Sky Park designation and has added a new bathroom facility, with discussions underway for eight new campsites.
Representatives from the National Parks Service provided updates on Canyonlands, Natural Bridges, and Hovenweep National Monument regarding visitor center hours and projects. A significant change was noted for Hovenweep National Monument, which will implement an entrance fee similar to Natural Bridges.
Greg Owens of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area detailed improvements at Halls Crossing, including expanded RV capacity with full hookups and a forthcoming restaurant. Meanwhile, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources officer Calvin Black discussed hunting and fishing updates, noting that rifle elk permits sold out quickly and mentioning upcoming trout stocking efforts in local reservoirs.
y Jared Beard of UDOT demonstrated how to use the agency website to monitor road conditions. He highlighted repairs for the Charles Hall Ferry and noted that work on the bridge in Mexican Hat could lead to closures of up to 24 hours.
San Juan County Public Health Director Kirk Benge provided an update on Coronavirus, advising on testing turnaround times and preventative measures. To conclude the meeting, Natalie Randall, Director of San Juan County Economic Development and Visitor Services, introduced new pocket community guides and rip maps for Monticello, Blanding, and Bluff. A detailed Be in the Know report covering all discussed topics is expected to be released by the San Juan County EDVS and Moab Area Travel Council.
