A myth persists that designating land as wilderness "locks it away" forever.

Just the opposite is true. Conserving land as wilderness actually ensures that the greatest number of citizens can enjoy it in the greatest number of ways-and that their children and grandchildren will be able to enjoy it, as well.

Indeed, among the many uses allowed in wilderness areas are:

• Hunting and fishing
• Livestock grazing, where previously established
• Mining on pre-existing claims
• Camping
• Rafting, kayaking and canoeing
• Guiding and outfitting
• Scientific studies and educational programs
• Foot and horse travel
• Control of wildfires, insects and disease outbreaks.

To protect natural wilderness forces from human interference, and to provide opportunities for solitude, a small number of intrusive activities are not allowed in wilderness areas. Those include:

• Use of mechanized transport, except in emergencies or as medical transport
• Roadbuilding, logging and similar commercial uses
• Striking new mining claims
• Erecting new reservoirs or powerlines, except when the President specifically authorizes them in the national interest.

Sacrificing wilderness can destroy overnight what it took Nature millions of years to create. Wilderness embraces lands where Earth and all its natural wonders are protected from callous exploitation and destruction.

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Learn More

• See the SUWA pictorial Utah's Redrock Wilderness: A National Treasure Threatened.
  

• Find out what you can do to help protect the Utah Wilderness.
  

• Read the letter from the Executive Director of SUWA.
  

Content © 1995 Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance (SUWA)