KZMU News

In this week's Regional Roundup, we speak to Durango's new mayor, who has made history as the first Indigenous person to hold the position. We also hear about Aspen's queer prom that offers a safe and celebratory space for LGBTQ youth. Next is a story about a choir that uses choral music to spark important community conversations. Then, we tag along on a field trip with some elementary students as they explore the Valley Floor near Telluride. And finally, we hear from the author of "Her Place on the Map: 18 Women and the Colorado Wonders Named for Them."

On the News Reel this week, we speak to Doug McMurdo from the Moab Times-Independent about a uranium mine in San Juan County that could be one of the first mines approved under the Trump administration's directive to expedite permitting and the environmental review process. We also give a quick update about the grand opening of Utahraptor State Park and a preview of the Moab Arts Festival this weekend. - Show Notes - • Trump administration to fast-track permits for Utah uranium mine https://www.sltrib.com/news/nation-world/2025/05/13/utah-uranium-trump-administration/ • Utahraptor State Park to host grand opening on May 23 https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/utahraptor-state-park-to-host-grand-opening-may-23/ • Moab Arts Festival to return this weekend https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-arts-festival-returns-this-weekend/

This week on Regional Roundup, we hear about a recent study that scrutinizes early stage plans from Congress to use public lands for housing developments. We also hear about a water conservation program in Western Colorado, and a story about a horse rescue group working to save mustangs from kill buyers. To finish, we hear about a Navajo community in San Juan County that now has access to running water for the first time.

On the News Reel this week, we talk to Andrew Christiansen from the Moab Times-Independent about the Kane Creek development, now called Echo Canyon, which was recently rejected in the process of becoming a preliminary municipality, though developers are expected to re-apply soon. We also mention possible changes in the county's Building Department, which could be replaced by third-party contractors. And we finish with the latest water report, which shows record low snowpack in southern Utah this year. - Show Notes - • Controversial developer's bid for incorporation rejected by state https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/controversial-developers-bid-for-incorporation-rejected-by-state/ • Grand County weighs third-party option for building inspections https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-weighs-third-party-option-for-building-inspections/ • Southern Utah snowpack ‘record dry' https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/southern-utah-snowpack-record-dry/

On the News Reel this week, we speak to Andrew Christiansen from the Moab Times-Independent about recent cuts to AmeriCorps programs nationwide and how these cuts are affecting organizations in Moab. We also talk about the local National Park Service headquarters building that's at risk of closing in April if the federal government follows through on its plan to not renew leases for many federal offices across the country. - Show Notes - • DOGE targets AmeriCorps https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/doge-targets-americorps/ • Built for efficiency, used for decades: Moab's NPS headquarters faces uncertain future https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/built-for-efficiency-used-for-decades-moabs-nps-headquarters-faces-uncertain-future/

Over 30,000 AmeriCorps members lost their jobs last week after an executive order canceled $400 million in grants nationwide. In Moab, at least five organizations lost AmeriCorps members, including the affordable housing non-profit Community Rebuilds, which lost 10 members. Today, we speak with Community Rebuilds Executive Director Rikki Epperson, Program Director Nancy Morlock, and former Community Rebuilds AmeriCorps member Josie Messner about the cuts.

This week on the Regional Roundup, as the Trump administration considers shrinking the size of several national monuments, including Bears Ears in Utah, we hear why the area is sacred to many tribes. We also learn about a program helping workers in one resort community who can't afford housing. Plus, a story about the ways in which federal immigration laws are affecting communities across the region.

Today on the News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Moab Times Independent, about a section of the Navajo Nation in San Juan County that recently got running water for the first time. We also discuss the Moab Museum's new co-directorship system, which was set up after the previous director was fired earlier this year. Plus, a quick update about the county's planning and zoning department, which is still struggling to fill the director position amidst a major overhaul of the land use code. - Show Notes - • A small Navajo community celebrates running water milestone after 25 years https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/a-precious-life-source-a-small-navajo-community-celebrates-running-water-milestone-after-25-years/ • Grand County hires recruiter to fill key vacancies https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-hires-recruiter-to-fill-key-vacancies/ • Moab Museum shifts to co-leadership after director's removal https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-museum-shifts-to-co-leadership-after-directors-removal/

This week on Regional Roundup, we hear voices from the Hands Off! protests in Denver and Salt Lake City that took place on April 19. We'll learn about hazard mitigation planning in communities across the Rocky Mountain West, and how a now-canceled federal program has helped with those efforts. Then, a story about a bill that would regulate social media in Colorado that's facing a potential veto from the governor. Finally, we hear about partnerships with landowners in Wyoming who are trying to mitigate chronic wasting disease in elk.

This week on the News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Moab Times-Independent, about the federal government's plan to close the National Park Service's Southeast Utah headquarters building and two USGS offices in Moab. We also discuss the Arroyo Crossing housing development, which just received funding for the next phase of construction. Show Notes - • Grand County urges Utah delegation to evaluate pending federal office closures in Moab https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-urges-utah-delegation-to-evaluate-pending-federal-office-closures-in-moab/ • CDBG funds pave way for phase 2 at Arroyo Crossing https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/cdbg-funds-pave-way-for-phase-2-at-arroyo-crossing/

This week on the News Reel, we speak with Doug McMurdo, editor of the Moab Times-Independent, about upcoming parking closures on Main Street. We also discuss the possibility for Moab City to provide water services to Arches National Park, the potential for Grand County to incorporate the federal land currently in remediation at the UMTRA site, and whether Moab will be chosen for the state's next medical cannabis dispensary. Plus, a quick announcement about the upcoming car show. Show Notes - • UDOT will improve pavement markings on Main Street https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/udot-will-improve-pavement-markings-on-main-street/ • Moab looks to extend water and sewer to Arches https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-looks-to-extend-water-and-sewer-services-to-arches/ • Bill introduced to transfer UMTRA site to Grand County https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/bill-introduced-to-transfer-umtra-site-to-grand-county/ • ‘All eyes are on Moab' for Utah's next rural medical cannabis pharmacy https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/all-eyes-are-on-moab-for-utahs-next-rural-medical-cannabis-pharmacy/ • Moab Rotary Car Show returns for 33rd year at Swanny Park https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-rotary-car-show-returns-for-33rd-year-at-swanny-park/

This week on Regional Roundup, we hear reports from across the region on the "Hands Off" protests, which drew thousands to the streets as part of a nationwide day of action against recent Trump administration policies. We also visit a unique library in Westcliffe, Colorado, where people can check out musical instruments. Plus, we break down NEPA, a cornerstone of environmental law, and close the show with a story about a recent powwow in Durango.

This week on the News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen of the Moab Times-Independent about the Grand County Commission asking planning commissioner Laura Long to resign because of a conflict of interest with the Kane Creek development. We also discuss changes to Social Security, and how that could affect residents in rural Grand County. Plus, a story about the human remains that were found nine months after a Texas man went missing in Moab during a flash flood last summer. - Show Notes - • County Commission requests resignation of planning commissioner over impartiality concerns https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/county-commission-requests-resignation-of-planning-commissioner-over-impartiality-concerns/ • New Social Security rules: What Grand County residents need to know https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/new-social-security-rules-what-grand-county-residents-need-to-know/ • Remains of missing Texas man found nine months after Moab flood https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/remains-of-missing-texas-man-found-nine-months-after-moab-flood/

This week on Regional Roundup, we take a closer look at the Sundance Film Festival's recent announcement that it will move from Park City, Utah—its home for 40 years—to Boulder, Colorado, starting in 2027. We hear from a Colorado lawmaker sponsoring legislation to provide the festival with tax credits, as well as the director of the Utah Film Commission on what the move means for the state. Also, we examine the carbon footprint of the food we eat and explore a new collection of essays that delves into the tension between growth and sustainability in the American West.

Today on the News Reel, we speak with Doug McMurdo, editor of the Times Independent, about Grand County Commission Chair Bill Winfield's philanthropy in Nepal. We also talk about the city's plan to improve sidewalks downtown and give an overview of the city's new strategic plan. Plus, a quick story about the recipients of this year's RAP tax grants. - Show Notes - • Commission chair reflects on a decade of humanitarian work in Nepal https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/commission-chair-reflects-on-decade-of-humanitarian-work-in-nepal/ • City sidewalks could be improved this summer https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/city-sidewalks-will-be-improved-this-summer/ • Moab's RAP tax provides $83k to city-based nonprofits https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moabs-rap-tax-provides-83k-to-city-based-nonprofits/

Today, we bring you a special episode that aired during our Spring 2025 Radiothon fundraiser to celebrate the miracle of radio broadcasting. KZMU Engineer Bob Owen breaks down the science of sound waves and explains the journey our voices take to get from the station on Rocky Road to the ears of our listeners. We talk about how terrestrial radio connects us, literally, from transmitter to receiver, but also how it connects us as a community through that special human touch in our airwaves.

This week on Regional Roundup, we hear from civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, who spoke about immigrant rights recently at a rally in Denver, as well as from representatives from nonprofits that aid immigrants in the region. Plus, we hear from the producer of a new podcast that looks at recreation economies in the region, including in Moab.

Today on the News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent, about Fiery Furnace, a popular hiking spot in Arches National Park, which is closed indefinitely because of staff shortages related to federal budget cuts. We also discuss the funding structure for Grand County's EMS program, which has seen declining revenue in recent years. - Show Notes - • Arches temporarily halts Fiery Furnace permits and tours due to employee shortages https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/arches-temporarily-halts-fiery-furnace-permits-and-tours-due-to-employee-shortages/ • Grand County approves $350k to temporarily stabilize EMS amid financial struggles https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-approves-350k-to-temporarily-stabilize-ems-amid-financial-struggles/

This week on the Regional Roundup, we learn about a recent rally in support of fired federal workers and hear from a federal employee on the significance of public lands. We also explore what Ramadan means to one Utah resident, delve into the history of a small-town newspaper in rural Colorado, and highlight a key moment in LGBTQ history in Boulder, Colorado.

Annette Kearl is a music therapist in Moab whose doctoral research found that certain sounds can enhance the immune system. She's dedicated her career to studying the effects of music on the body and helping people improve their health with sound vibrations. She hosts sound baths at Desert Power Yoga in Moab throughout the year, including one this Sunday at 6:30 p.m. - Show Notes - • Desert Power Yoga event schedule www.desertpoweryoga.com/events • Annette Kearl's research on overtone tables https://www.proquest.com/docview/1914676835?pq-origsite=gscholar&fromopenview=true

Today on the News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent, about the results from the official investigation into a plane crash that killed North Dakota state senator Doug Larsen and his family in Moab in 2023. We also discuss a new program to address domestic violence in Grand County, which has one of the highest rates of domestic violence cases per capita in the state. We finish up with a story about a new law that could roll back a program to relieve property taxes for low income and elderly homeowners, and how that might affect Grand County residents. - Show Notes - • Pilot error caused airplane crash that killed 4 https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/ntsb-pilot-error-caused-airplane-crash-that-killed-4/ • National program aims to address Moab's domestic violence problem https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/national-program-aims-to-address-moabs-domestic-violence-problem/ • Low-income seniors, disabled Utahns could see property tax relief changes https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/low-income-seniors-disabled-utahns-could-see-property-tax-relief-changes/

This week on the Regional Roundup, we'll get reports on the latest wolf activity in Wyoming and Colorado. We'll also hear how students, researchers, medical professionals, and community members across the region took part in Stand Up for Science events on March 7. Plus, a report on the significance of Ramadan, and to finish up, a story on how a nonprofit on Colorado's Western Slope is supporting survivors of domestic abuse.

Today on the News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times-Independent, about some of the noteworthy bills that were passed during this year's general session, which ended last week. We also tell listeners about WabiSabi's new location. Plus, we hear from Kenny Fallon, editor of the Green River Observer. We discuss a report from the Green River Fire Department that highlights quick response times from this past year. Plus, we talk about a story from High Country News about a new coal mine in Emery County that's struggling to find employees. - Show Notes - • How the Legislature will change Utahns' lives this year https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/its-ugly-but-it-works-how-the-legislature-will-change-utahns-lives-this-year/ • WabiSabi finds a new home https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/wabisabi-finds-a-new-home/ • The Green River Observer https://thegreenriverobserver.substack.com/ • High Country News: Utah's coal mines can't find enough workers https://www.hcn.org/issues/57-3/utahs-coal-mines-cant-find-enough-workers/

The Trump administration has promised to cut funding for many federal programs, including the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. CPB funds public media like PBS, NPR, and other radio stations. KZMU is not funded through CPB, but our listeners benefit from the hard work of many partner stations that are. Today, we speak with Breeze Richardson, executive director of Aspen Public Radio and board president of the Rocky Mountain Radio Coalition, a network of regional stations that includes KZMU. We'll talk about what these cuts could mean for stations throughout the coalition, and why local radio matters.

This week on Regional Roundup, we'll hear how researchers are studying the impact of recreation on public lands and the natural environment. We also hear from an immigration attorney provides an overview of how new laws and executive orders are affecting immigrants. Plus a story about Moab's high schoolers as they prepare for prom.

Today on the News Reel, we speak with Doug McMurdo, editor of the Times-Independent, about a protest that took place at Arches National Park recently. We also discuss upcoming federal office space closures in Moab for the National Park Service, the United States Forest Service, and the United States Geological Survey. Plus, we give updates about the Moab Area Transit schedule and a save-the-date for a volunteer day to clean up some local trails.

Over 200 people attended a public hearing on March 5 to challenge a feasibility study that approves Kane Creek developers to establish a preliminary municipality in Grand County. The study found that if incorporated, the luxury housing and commercial development would be financially viable, a requirement for moving forward with the project. But many Moab residents disagreed with the findings, arguing that the results were based on unrealistic assumptions about the local economy. While the hearing gave residents an opportunity to ask questions and air grievances, a representative from the Lt. Governor's Office who moderated the meeting, Jordan Schwanke, said the results of the study are final, and the project will move ahead regardless. Photo: Audience members display a banner that says: Repeal SB258. The bill established the preliminary municipality process, which enables landowners to incorporate their property even without any residents. A new bill to essentially repeal SB258 — House Bill 540 — is currently making its way through the Utah Legislature. Lawmakers will decide by March 7. Photo by Emily Arntsen / KZMU.

Today we speak with a former U.S. Forest Service employee who was abruptly fired in February along with the rest of the district's trail crew. What could happen to Moab's trail system without the team? And what should residents and tourists expect as further workforce cuts are predicted with a federal budget deadline looming on March 14? Photo courtesy of former U.S. Forest Service trail crew member.

This week on Regional Roundup, we'll hear about a commemorative climb that honored the 10th Mountain Division and their role in blocking Hitler's defensive Gothic Line in Italy during World War II. We also drop in on the trials for the U.S. Olympic Mixed Curling Team, which took place recently in Colorado. To finish up, we examine the high cost of housing in the region, and the problem of under insurance due to wildfire.

At Grand County High School, prom is a big deal, and some kids have had their dates picked since elementary school. That's because in Moab, your date isn't just someone you take photos with. You have to perform a choreographed dance with them in front of hundreds of people. It's part of a longstanding Moab tradition — the promenade. It's an opening ceremony to kick off the actual prom, and friends and family are invited to come watch as students make a grand entrance. This year's promenade will take place on Saturday at 8:00 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Photo: Students rehearse for this year's promenade at Grand County High School. By KZMU / Emily Arntsen

Today on the News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen of the Moab Times-Independent about the nationwide cuts to the federal workforce and how it's affecting public land managers in Moab. We also mention a recent announcement by the Moab Police Department reassuring undocumented immigrants that they can call local law enforcement in emergencies without being questioned about their immigration status, as the department has no intention of specifically targeting undocumented immigrants. And we finish up with an update about a new mountain bike trail network that's under construction in San Juan County.

Utah's Division of Water Resources says that cloud seeding — a procedure that increases snowfall by injecting silver iodide into the atmosphere — adds about 200,000 acre feet of water to the state's river system each year. But there's a catch. Cloud seeding only works when it's already snowing. And this winter, it's been so dry in southeastern Utah, there were hardly enough clouds in the sky for the state to operate its new cloud seeding stations in the La Sal Mountains. The region has only received about half of the snowfall for a typical year. - Show Notes - https://water.utah.gov/cloudseeding/

This week on Regional Roundup, we'll hear from communities across the Mountain West that are protesting new executive orders from the Trump administration regarding immigration. We also hear about Wyoming and Utah's ongoing public lands debates over state versus federal control. Plus, a story about a citizen science project to gauge bird population size. And finally, a story on the history of Black communities in Colorado.

On the show today, we have the weekly News Reel where we talk to other local journalists about what they reported this week. Today, we speak with Andrew Christiansen of the Moab Times-Independent about where the Kane Creek developers are in the process of becoming a preliminary municipality within Grand County. We also touch on the life and legacy of Moab geologist Lin Ottinger, who passed away last week at 97. And we finish up discussing changes to transient room tax that are making their way through the Utah Legislature. - Show Notes - • Kane Creek town proposal moves forward, public hearing set https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/kane-creek-town-proposal-moves-forward-public-hearing-set/ • Lin Ottinger, Moab's ‘Dinosaur Man' and rock shop founder, dies at 97 https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/lin-ottinger-moabs-dinosaur-man-and-rock-shop-founder-dies-at-97/ • State could give Grand County more flexibility over tourism tax revenue https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/state-could-give-grand-county-more-flexibility-over-tourism-tax/

This week on Regional Roundup, we hear why diversity is needed in climate research following the Trump administration's cuts to DEI programs at federal agencies. We also hear about two new films that premiered at the recent Sundance Film Festival in Utah, and we tag along with some birders in Boulder County, Colorado, on the trail of hundreds of wild turkeys that roost in cottonwood trees.

Today on the show, we have the weekly News Reel, where we talk to other local journalists about what they covered this week. We talk to Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Moab Times-Independent, about the Moab Museum, whose director, Forrest Rodgers, was fired last week just days before a new exhibit on the history of uranium mining opens on Feb. 15. We also talk about the county's planning and zoning director, Amy Weiser, who recently resigned after just six months in the position. And we finish up with an update about new members of the county's Economic Opportunity Advisory Board. - Show Notes - • Moab museum board fires Rodgers; donor voids bequest https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-museum-board-fires-rodgers-donor-voids-bequest/ • Moab Museum's U92 exhibit explores uranium boom, bust and its legacy https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-museums-u92-exhibit-explores-uranium-boom-bust-and-its-legacy/ • Grand County Planning and Zoning director resigns after six months https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-planning-and-zoning-director-resigns-after-6-months/ • Commission rejects EOAB's recommendation in split vote https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/commission-rejects-eoabs-recommendation-in-split-vote/

On Friday, the Utah Board of Education banned another book from all public schools in the state. "Like a Love Story" by Abdi Nazemian is the 16th book Utah has banned since a new law went into effect last summer that allows individual school districts to remove books from public school libraries statewide so long as at least two other school districts agree the book contains sensitive material. Critics say the ban is targeting books with queer and transgender characters. News of ongoing book bans comes as the most recent Nation's Report Card found that most American eighth graders are a full year behind in reading. And Utah's students are no exception, with many seventh and eighth grade students in Grand County reading below a sixth grade level. Today, we speak with Margaret L. Hopkin Middle School librarian Tracy Renn, Grand County Public Library director Carrie Valdes, and Grand County School District superintendent Mike McFalls about the issue. - Show Notes - • Nation's Report Card https://www.nationsreportcard.gov/ • Utah bans a 16th book from public schools https://www.sltrib.com/news/education/2025/02/07/16th-book-lands-utahs-list-those/ • Books Unbanned Project https://www.bklynlibrary.org/books-unbanned

This week on Regional Roundup, we hear about the potential for geothermal energy in the Rocky Mountain West. A sociologist who studies gangs dispels the myths around immigration and gang violence. And we hear from some young mushers at a recent dog sled tournament.

Today on the weekly News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Moab Times-Independent, about Grand County's plan to acquire a federal pipeline that currently brings water from the Green River to the UMTRA tailings disposal site in Crescent Junction. The repurposed pipeline could eventually bring water to Grand County residents in Thompson Springs. We also discuss the results of the city's flood mitigation study, which was required for the city to receive federal funding to pay for repairs. And we finish up with a profile of a Green River resident who takes care of the town's booming feral cat population. - Show Notes - • Utah lawmakers back federal pipeline transfer to Grand County water district https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/utah-lawmakers-back-federal-pipeline-transfer-to-grand-county-water-district/ • Moab flood study yields a host of potential solutions https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-flood-study-yields-a-host-of-potential-solutions/ • One woman's mission to help Green River's feral cats https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/one-womans-mission-to-help-green-rivers-feral-cats/

On Tuesday, Feb. 11, high school and middle school students will participate in the annual Youth Voices Speak Out event to educate kids and parents about mental health resources in the community. Students can submit songs, videos, essays, or posters that focus on mental health challenges. Cash prizes will be awarded to the best entries. Submissions are due Feb. 7. The event will take place at 6:00 p.m. in the Grand County High School auditorium. - Show Notes - • Youth Voices Speak Out https://www.grandschools.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1653110&type=d&pREC_ID=2548789

This week on Regional Roundup, we cover gun legislation in Colorado and Wyoming, discuss wildfire preparedness in the arid West, visit a snow plane rally in Idaho, and explore an artists' residency in southeastern Utah.

Today on the weekly news reel, we speak with Doug McMurdo, editor of the Times-Independent, about possible repercussions for a motorized hang glider who spooked a group of horses during a horseback riding tour near Fisher Towers this fall. We also discuss a group that provides free vision testing and glasses to Moab residents. Plus, a story about new volunteer board members on the Travel Council Advisory Board and the Grand County Planning Commission. - Show Notes - Several riders thrown from horses near Fisher Towers • https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/it-was-the-most-terrifying-experience-of-my-life/ Hope Alliance provides free vision care to over 140 Moabites from underserved communities • https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/hope-alliance-provides-free-vision-care-to-over-140-moabites-from-underserved-communities/ Grand County Commission appoints volunteer board members amid debate • https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-commission-appoints-volunteer-board-members-amid-debate/

This week on Regional Roundup, we hear voices from People's Marches across the region in protest of President Donald Trumps stance on social justice issues such as reproductive rights and immigration. We also hear about a coalition of labor unions calling for a renewed focus on clean energy jobs. Plus, we have a story about the Indy Pass, a cheaper ski pass that offers access to independent and smaller ski resorts around the Rocky Mountain West.

Today on the weekly News Reel, we speak with Andrew Christiansen, reporter at the Times Independent, about a loss of funding for the BEACON Afterschool Program. We also talk about the latest statewide report on drug overdose deaths, which found the rate of overdose deaths in Grand County were twice the state's average. And we finish with an update from the airport about restored air service to Denver. - Show Notes - • BEACON Afterschool Program faces financial growing pains https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/beacon-afterschool-program-faces-financial-growing-pains/ • Grand County drug overdose deaths roughly double in five years https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-drug-overdose-deaths-roughly-double-in-five-years/ • Canyonlands airport to have daily Denver flights starting April 1 https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/canyonlands-airport-to-have-daily-denver-flights-starting-april-1/

Today, we hear from KUER about Moab's disappearing farmland. As Utah's population expands, so does demand for housing and water. In Grand County, where property prices are nearly seven times what they were 20 years ago, much of the agricultural land - and its water rights - is changing hands to developers. Where does that water go now? Plus, we hear from KJZZ about the new nominee for Secretary of the Interior, Doug Burgum, who will oversee the nation's natural resources and federal land managers.

This week on Regional Roundup, we explore efforts to rename sections of a Colorado highway in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We also hear from one Utah academic who draws parallels between the state's elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and historical resistance to racial integration at public swimming pools. Finally, we examine how communities across the Rocky Mountain West are collaborating to manage wildfire risks.

On Saturday, the Moab Abortion and Reproductive Rights Network hosted a local People's March in solidarity with the national movement. Participants gathered to protest the Trump administration's stance on reproductive rights as Utah's near-total ban on abortion still hangs in limbo in state court. - Show Notes - • Photo: About 75 people joined Moab's People's March on Saturday to advocate for greater reproductive rights. Photo by Andrew Christiansen / Moab Times-Independent • MARRN https://www.facebook.com/groups/marrn/

On the news reel today, we talk to Doug McMurdo of the Times Independent about the city's plans to change parking, traffic lights and more on Main Street. Plus we cover the city's discussions about what to do with the Walnut Lane Property where they promised to build affordable housing. We finish up with a story about the county's new stance on the timed entry system at Arches National Park. This week, we also speak to Kenny Fallon from the Green River Observer. We discuss Green River's new subdivision process, which was changed recently to meet the requirements of a new state law. We also talk about a new ordinance in town that allows people to live in RVs and campers on their property while building houses. Plus, an update about pay changes for EMS workers in Green River and the latest on the lawsuit against the state engineer's office for approving water rights for a lithium mine in town. - Show Notes - • Big changes are coming to Main Street https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/big-changes-are-coming-to-main-street/ • Moab Mayor: Walnut Lane gets decided this year https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/moab-mayor-walnut-lane-gets-decided-this-year/ • Grand County withdraws support of timed entry at Arches https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-county-withdraws-support-of-timed-entry-at-arches • Green River Observer https://thegreenriverobserver.substack.com/

State lawmakers will discuss possible changes to Utah's vote by mail system during the 2025 legislative session, which begins on Jan. 21. Criticism of the mail-in ballot process has followed the release of a recent audit that found five potential cases of voter fraud in Utah in 2023. Supporters say the changes could increase election security, while opponents argue the new rules would diminish voter participation and disproportionately affect rural residents. - Show Notes - • Voter turnout was down in Indigenous communities in San Juan County this election https://www.kzmu.org/voter-turnout-was-down-in-indigenous-communities-in-san-juan-county-this-election/

On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court tossed out Utah's public lands lawsuit that would have challenged the federal government's control of over 18 million acres across the state. The lawsuit was just one effort Utah officials have made in recent months as part of a larger campaign to wrest control of public lands from the Bureau of Land Management. Public land advocates have called the state's attempted land grab misleading, saying that those federal lands wouldn't necessarily go to the state, but rather, to the highest bidder. - Show Notes - • Salt Lake Tribune: Here's how much Utah is spending on a public relations campaign for its lawsuit seeking control of public lands https://www.sltrib.com/news/environment/2024/11/04/utah-sued-supreme-court-control/ • Photo: Public land advocates gathered at the Utah State Capitol this weekend to protest Utah's land grab lawsuit. Photo courtesy of the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance.

Cases in the U.S. District Court of Utah can now be heard in Moab and Monticello. The change is intended to cut down travel times for law enforcement involved in hearings and citizens selected for federal jury duty. Plus, a new management plan for Bears Ears National Monument allows rock climbing, prohibits base jumping, and continues on with the status quo for grazing in the area.