Although struggles have hit Duchesne County, it hasn’t fallen on deaf ears. In a report to his constituents, Utah Representative John Westwood from District 72 shared that lawmakers recently visited Duchesne County to see the areas impacted by the Dollar Ridge Fire. Members of the Executive Appropriations Committee saw with their own eyes the impact of the fire this past summer. They were also able to discuss water infrastructures and in what ways jobs could be created in rural areas by increasing energy development opportunities. The lawmakers spoke with officials from various agencies including the Central Utah Water Conservancy, Duchesne County Sheriff’s office, Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands (FFSL), as well as local residents, business leaders and local representatives in the rural communities. It was a chance for those who represent urban areas to gain an insight to the issues that face rural communities. Having such insights will hopefully lead to new innovative solutions.
