UTAH’S TAYLOR FLAT AIRSTRIP GETS GREEN LIGHT TO REOPEN

“Daggett County Commission just recently approved both the Taylor Flat Airstrip [Right Of Way] lease agreement with the BLM, and the application for an FAA identifier for Utah’s Taylor Flat Airstrip,” RAF Utah Liaison Wendy Lessig announced.

Taylor Flat, in the northeast corner of Utah is managed by the BLM’s Vernal Field Office, and Lessig thanks the staff there. “Special thanks to Daggett County for their willingness to handle and record the airstrip Right Of Way and allow pilots to enjoy this beautiful airstrip,” Lessig said.

Lessig was instrumental preparing the application, coordinating between Daggett County, the BLM, and other stakeholders, and gathered information to assist the BLM throughout the required Environmental Assessment. “Thanks to Wendy’s taking action as the RAF Liaison, and her professional persistence following through the lengthy public review process, Taylor Flat Airstrip will reopen as another unique backcountry destination,” RAF President Bill McGlynn said. Volunteers will be organized to work on reopening the 2,500 x 70 foot airstrip, expected in spring 2026. The dry camping area is within a quarter mile of the Green River.

This airstrip has been closed for 28 years and will remain so until the planned work is complete. Kent Bond – Lessig’s fellow member of Utah Back Country Pilots – originally suggested the remote possibility of reopening the airstrip, and Lessig, along with RAF Utah Ambassador John Clayton, took on the task. “The RAF persisted and did not give up throughout the two and-a-half year process. Once opened, watch for Taylor Flat in the Airfield Guide, and a new RAF windsock midfield at the airstrip,” Lessig added.

Submitted October 15, 2025