Factory Butte is an incredible landmark shaped by water, wind and time. It was named "Provo Factory" by the Mormon settlers. This landmark reminded them of a mill in Provo, Utah. To many of us Factory Butte and the surrounding badlands represent one of the most amazing landforms under a desert sky.

The Factory Butte area has become the center of controversy. There are some individuals who see this landmark as a natural stage on which to enjoy the sport of freestyle motocross. This is understandable because the land is extremely formed and provides opportunity to ride fast and perform jumps. However, the land is no match for the machines.

There is a growing volume of scientific data warning us regarding the fragile nature of this area. Studies indicated that the disturbed soils erode 45 times faster than the natural rate. This landmark and the surrounding badlands are being ground away by the wheels of the machines.

There are several species of endangered cactus that are being smashed by the wheels of the machines. The habitat for these plants is being disturbed. The natural beauty of the area is being marked with the impressions of the wheels.

The BLM, the designated caretaker of this public land, has enacted an emergency protection order. This action was made necessary by the increasing damaged generated by the machines. This order is temporary. We would like your help in informing the Bureau of Land Management regarding the necessity to provide permanent protection to this area.

We believe that the existing designated play area comprised of 2600 acres provides a place for the extreme freestyle motocross enthusiastists to enjoy their sport. There are also 280 miles of trails within the area that provide access to the incredible beauty of the area.

We believe that everyone should be able to enjoy the natural wonders of this area. The extreme off road enthusiasts believe that all 190,000 acres that comprise the Factory Butte area should be open to unrestricted access for the machines. This open access plan would result in the area becoming one large dirt bike play area. This would not allow for multiple use of the area and would not protect the natural resources of the area.

The BLM is in the process of finalizing the resource management plans for the Factory Butte area as well as several other areas within the redrock community. Please visit the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance for information regarding the part you can play in the process.

You may also visit the Utah Governor's office and let them know that you value the natural resources of the redrock public lands and that you hope to see less roads and more protection for wilderness.

Visit our Photo Gallery  for the latest photos of the Factory Butte area.

You can help us prevent the destruction of our habitat!