Commissioners approve temporary easement vacation to relocate Willard Canyon trail

Box Elder County commissioners on March 11 approved a temporary vacation of a trail right‑of‑way in Willard Canyon so the trail can be relocated away from nearby mining operations.

The board opened a public hearing on the proposal after Community Development Director Scott Lyons explained the request was prompted by mining activity and public‑safety concerns. After hearing from neighbors and stakeholders, Commissioner Lee Perry moved to approve the easement vacate and to instruct staff to prepare a proper ordinance for the next Commission meeting; Commissioner Boyd Bingham seconded the motion and it was carried unanimously.

Members of the Wells family and Willard City Council spoke in support of restoring public access while protecting private property rights. Brad Wells expressed appreciation for county staff and legal counsel for finding a solution that preserves access while protecting landowner rights. Mike Bragger of the Willard City Council said, “the new trail is in a good location and is away from the mining.”

Lynn Murphy of the Willard Canyon Coalition urged caution about the narrowness of the proposed easement, saying, “I have a little bit of concern about the three foot easement as there is not much leeway if the trail becomes muddy or not in good condition,” and suggested a gate would be preferable to the current stile to improve access and safety. Willard City Council member Rod Mund said the city is planning parking and signage improvements and emphasized they do not want motorized vehicles on the trail.

The Commission closed the hearing and approved the vacation on a unanimous roll‑call vote. Staff will draft the ordinance language and return it to the board for formal adoption at a subsequent meeting.