SALT LAKE CITY — A federal historic preservation agency said it wants a closer look at the potential effects of ramping up natural gas operations near Nine Mile Canyon.
The canyon — sometimes called the world’s longest art gallery — contains thousands of prehistoric rock paintings and carvings.
The Bureau of Land Management is considering a proposal to allow more than 800 new wells near the canyon. Some worry more truck traffic in the area would kick up dust and jeopardize the rock art.
The federal Advisory Council on Historic Preservation sent a letter to the BLM on Monday that said the project could have “substantial impacts” in the area. The council said it plans to play a larger role in influencing the BLM’s final proposal.
The agency’s involvement could slow approval of the project and add weight to concerns from tribal and environmental groups about the dangers posed to the rock art in central Utah.
“This is welcome news,” said Jerry Spangler of the Colorado Plateau Archaeological Alliance. “It’s pretty tough to ignore the advisory council when they get involved.”
Denver-based Bill Barrett Corp. already has about 100 wells on the plateau above the canyon. The company wants to expand development along the West Tavaputs Plateau to tap an estimated 1 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. The BLM released a draft proposal for the project earlier this year.
“That’s OK,” said Megan Crandall, a BLM spokeswoman. “We’ll adjust. The important part is we’re working together. . . . Our goal is to preserve that rock art.”
