Congresswoman Deb Haaland of New Mexico has been tapped to lead the Department of the Interior. President-elect Joe Biden’s pick is a historic one – Haaland will be the first ever Indigenous cabinet secretary if she’s confirmed. Plus, all signs point to a dry start to 2021 across much of the Colorado River watershed. And later, three local governments in Colorado have joined the growing rank of lawsuits filed against fossil fuel companies for their role in climate change. Our partners at KOTO report on the effect the lawsuits could have even before they’re decided in court.

And it’s Friday, that means we have our Weekly News Reel! where local reporters and editors discuss their latest stories about our area.

(8:00)First, Grand County’s 2021 budget was approved on Tuesday. Times-Independent reporter Carter Pape has a report on some interesting items the county will fund next year. He also touches on the county’s decision to formally deny Rally on the Rocks a special event permit for their 2021 event.

(23:00)Plus, the Moab Sun News published their meaty year in review this week. Looking back on their coverage from 2020, editor Maggie McGuire says she sees community resilience during stressful times.

Show Notes:

Photo: Telluride, Colorado/Julia Caulfield

KUNC: Colorado River Basin Winter Forecast Signals Dry Times Ahead

https://www.kunc.org/2020-12-17/colorado-river-basin-winter-forecast-signals-dry-times-ahead?fbclid=IwAR1C94CUkXjHJyuqfDm2dgez9W1AEDqji8WrN6OtHciqghU5RifL9JywiEk

Weekly News Reel Mentions –

The Times-Independent: What does ‘bypass’ mean?

https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/what-does-bypass-mean/

County budgets for $654K surplus in Travel Council

https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/county-budgets-for-654k-surplus-in-travel-council/

The Times-Independent: Grand looks to halt 2021 Rally on the Rocks

https://www.moabtimes.com/articles/grand-looks-to-halt-2021-rally-on-the-rocks/

Find the Moab Sun News’ Year in Review on local newsstands, or with an E-subscription to the Moab Sun News.