SALT LAKE CITY -- The "Mormon corridor," a 250-mile swath of central and southern Utah, is dotted with small towns whose history will be preserved through a plan to increase tourism and economic development.

At least, that is the intent of the management plan for the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area, which was created by federal statute in 2006 and covers parts of six southern Utah counties and communities along 400 miles of highway.

"This will enhance the experience of people visiting these areas of Utah and encourage research, preservation of cultural resources, recreation opportunities and economic development with an emphasis on crafts and practices once used by pioneers," said Monte Bona, director of the Utah Heritage Highway 89 Alliance, which spearheaded creation of the heritage area.

The alliance was created to promote the works of artisans along U.S. Highway 89 in the southern two-thirds of the state. Mr. Bona emphasized that the heritage designation won't interfere with private property rights in the area.

The heritage area's purpose is to preserve and develop resources for research purposes and to enhance the enjoyment of visitors. It was created by legislation sponsored by U.S. Sen. Bob Bennett, R-Utah. The act was signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2006.

Snow College in Ephraim will serve as an anchor for the heritage area: It will house the $13 million Karen H. Huntsman Library and Heritage Plaza, being built with help from the former Utah first lady's foundation.

A management plan for the area, which still must be approved by the Interior Department, also calls for creation of a "traditional building-skills institute" that will be housed at Snow, offering workshops and a degree to "perpetuate the artisan and craft skills" associated with pioneers who settled in the area.

The management plan outlines a 10-year course for developing the historic area.

Cordell Roy, who works for the National Park Service and helped coordinate the project with the state, said the designation will help communities get funding to preserve and market their individual attractions.

Up to $10 million was authorized by the act creating the heritage area, but community chapters must provide matching funds.

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