The Uintah County Commission is set to consider a resolution to authorize legal steps to secure permanent access along Ashley Gorge Road. This move is part of ongoing efforts to protect public interest in the Ashley Gorge Property, formerly known as the Ashley Springs Property.
Commission Chair John Laursen stated that the Commission is committed to working toward a voluntary resolution while fulfilling an obligation to protect Ashley Springs, respect private property rights, and preserve public access to land held for the public benefit. Laursen noted the importance of looking beyond immediate disagreements to protect these interests for the long term.
The effort stems from a process started in 2019 when the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act was signed into law. This Act directed the transfer of 790 acres in Ashley Gorge to Uintah County. As a condition of the conveyance, Congress required the County to protect the aquifer, underground karst system, and watershed, prohibit mineral development, and allow public access for non-motorized recreation. The Bureau of Land Management completed the conveyance in 2020.
Access to the property is necessary for the County to manage the land and fulfill federal conveyance purposes. The County has identified Ashley Gorge Road as a Class D county road and maintains that the County and the public have existing rights in the road. The proposed resolution does not waive or abandon those claims.
Previous efforts to secure easement rights from two adjoining property owners have included multiple proposals, required notices, an independent appraisal, and offers for mediation through the Utah Property Rights Ombudsman. While no agreement has been reached to date, the resolution directs staff and legal counsel to continue pursuing a voluntary agreement or other acceptable access. The proposed easement would follow the existing road and would not require new construction or restrict surrounding property owners.
A hearing regarding the proposed action is scheduled for September 15, 2026, at 3 p.m. at the Uintah County Commission Chambers located at 147 East Main Street, Vernal, Utah 84078.
