This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
St. George • A proposed road that would cut through part of a southern Utah reserve for the Mojave Desert Tortoise — considered threatened under the Endangered Species Act — has earned initial approval despite objections from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The road through a corner of Red Cliffs Desert Reserve would lead to a possible development of 700 homes, the Spectrum reported.
An agreement says developer Kirk Willey would swap 20 acres for the ability to build the road, which is required for safety and fire standards.
"That's five-to-one of superior habitat, and that's sufficient to me, personally," said committee member and Ivins Mayor Chris Hart of the 4 acres that would be lost.
The Washington County Habitat Conservation Plan committee voted 4-1 to approve the swap. County commissioners voted earlier in October to support the proposed road.
Biologist Cameron Rognan said there has been some concern over whether part of the 20 acres will be appropriate habitat for the tortoises.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service committee representative Larry Crist voted no.
He said he doesn't see how the habitat conservation plan's rules would allow the road.
The development still faces a long process to gain approval.
Some residents have expressed concern about how the large development will fit into the rural community.