On January 31, 2022, Mesa County wrote to the Bureau of Land Management to comment on the Proposed Guidance for Renewable Energy on BLM Lands.
The letter states:
"Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Proposed Guidance for Renewable Energy on BLM Lands. Mesa County appreciates the cooperative relationship Mesa County has with the Bureau of Land Management (“BLM”) pursuant to Mesa County’s Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) No.
CO-076-97-001 with the BLM and offer the following comments:
Mesa County is a strong advocate for prudent multiple use of public lands and resources. The Mesa County Resource Management Plan (“RMP”) identifies the following Resource Management Objective for Renewable Energy resources:
To maintain a robust and diverse economic portfolio, Mesa County will encourage the development and production of renewable energy resources and provide a business-friendly environment within Mesa County to energy industry support services.
Further, Mesa County supports the following applicable Policy Statements as identified in the Mesa County
RMP:
2. Support the development of new and innovative technologies which enhance the safe and efficient use of renewable energy.3. Encourage coordination among the various Federal agencies and the State to facilitate renewable energy permits in a timely manner, as prescribed in federal and state law.4. Support the utilization of enhanced production techniques and the development of infrastructure to provide material supply and support to ensure further development throughout Mesa County.7. Support the creation of a Clean Energy District.8. Encourage the development of utility scale solar facilities on federally managed lands within the County.9. Encourage the continued growth of the renewable energy industry and the associated changes in the oil and gas industry.
Mesa County strongly believes early and consistent communication is imperative in creating an efficient process that will not only benefit the permittees, but also the BLM and public land users.
We encourage thorough and consistent communication with all lessees throughout the process to ensure all stakeholders are working toward the same goals.
Thank you for your consideration of the above comments."