Protecting Our Public Lands

Washington County is one of the most scenic areas in the West. The beautiful open spaces and scenic vistas make Washington County a desirable place to visit and call home. Our region is home to many endangered and threatened animals and plants including the Mojave desert tortoise, the southwest willow flycatcher,and the bearclaw poppy. Citizens for Dixie’s Future is committed to preserving quality of life in Washington County through protecting these open spaces that make our area unique.

National Conservation Areas

Washington County is home to two National Conservation Areas, Beaver Dam Wash NCA and Red Cliffs NCA. . These areas are part of the National Conservation Lands System, which contains some of the West’s most scenic landscapes. National Conservation Lands are some of the last wild places in the West. BLM is currently engaged in Resource Management Planning for these areas as well as a Plan amendment for the entire St. George Field Office. Join CDF in assuring that these areas are managed with conservation for future generations in mind. Read more about the BLM process here: 2012 BLM RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLANNING.

Washington County’s National Conservation Areas were dedicated by Secretary Salazar May 7, 2012. This was a momentous day celebrating the collaborative efforts that crossed party lines and resulted in a community based lands bill. View pictures from this day here.

Resource Management Planning

• CDF has nominated 5 new Areas of Critical Environmental Concern including the Virgin River, Zion Scenic Corridor, Upper Santa Clara River, Gunlock Squaretop and Moody Wash.
• CDF opposes any road through the protected Red Cliffs National Conservation Area.
• CDF has proposed a zoning concept for Travel Management Planning that identifies areas best suited to various uses.
• CDF is working towards conservation oriented planning for our National Conservation Lands that implements the principles of BLM’s National Conservation Lands 15 Year Strategic Plan.