Rio Blanco County backs rescission of DOI 2024 public-lands rule, ties concerns to 30x30

RIO BLANCO COUNTY, Colo. — The Rio Blanco County Board of County Commissioners voted on Oct. 28 to send a letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior supporting the agency’s proposed rescission of a 2024 public-lands rule.

Reese (county staff) framed the rule as one that "would actually prioritize restoration and conservation projects on our public lands, and ... take priority over other multiple uses like livestock grazing, oil and gas development." Reese said the county’s local natural-resources policies oppose efforts tied to the 30x30 conservation initiative and that the rescission would restore the multiple-use approach the county favors.

Commissioners discussed whether the issue could be taken to the congressional level to make changes statutory rather than by administrative rule; staff said the county could coordinate with Farm Bureau and Public Lands Council and suggested outreach to the congressional delegation and state land board as appropriate. The board approved the letter on a roll call vote.

Why it matters: The letter formalizes the county's opposition to a federal rule it views as elevating restoration/conservation priorities over other uses of public lands, a change that could affect grazing, energy development and local land managers. The county also tied the rule to broader debates over the 30x30 conservation initiative.

What’s next: Staff said the county will consider coordination with state and federal partners and may contact the congressional delegation and interested stakeholders to explore legislative options.

Evidence: County staff provided background in the meeting and commissioners voted to approve the letter.