President Barack Obama and Ken Salazar have made good use of the Antiquities Act in the creation of five more national monuments. The San Juan Islands are splendid, and I look forward to visiting the new Rio Grande Del Norte addition as well. While Salazar is on his way out, a couple of more additions would be nice. Utah has benefited from this political climate before.

Look at the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, for example. It’s still one of my favorite places to visit, as it retains the wild character that makes Utah special without the crowds that somewhat dampen the experience of our still splendid national parks. With the population in the area continuing to escalate, further protection is needed before it is altered, as I am sure Escalante would have been by now without the foresight of the Clinton administration. Now is the time for us to benefit. Salazar has nothing to lose now.

DUSTIN ERICKSON
Salt Lake City