The Utah Farm Bureau Federation, in collaboration with the Arizona Farm Bureau Federation, has nominated Chris Heaton of Kanab, for a position on the Monument Advisory Committee of the Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni-Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument. This nomination highlights the necessity of cross-border representation in the management of the newly designated national monument, which, although situated in Arizona, has a significant impact on communities and land users across state lines, especially those in Utah. 

Chris Heaton, a sixth-generation rancher on the Arizona Strip, would bring a unique perspective to the committee. His deep-rooted connection to the land and understanding of the cross-border dynamics make him an ideal candidate to represent the interests of ranchers and land users from both Arizona and Utah. 

ValJay Rigby, President of the Utah Farm Bureau Federation, stated, “Chris Heaton's nomination reflects Utah Farm Bureau’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of Utah residents who utilize lands on the Arizona Strip are heard in the management of this important national monument.”

The Monument Advisory Committee plays a crucial role in the management of the Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni-Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument. The committee will provide valuable information and advice to the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service on various aspects of monument management. 

Read the full text of the letter of recommendation for Chris’ nomination by clicking here. Nominations for the Monument Advisory Committee close on November 4, 2024. More information about the nomination process can be found by clicking here.