More programs proposed for Great Salt Lake

When it comes to an area that embodies what Utah is all about, it’s the Great Salt Lake. This truly unique area has become a tourist attraction as much as a symbol of the state.

In recent years, though, the statewide drought and a lack of water conservation have led to the lake being at record-low levels. While Utah Legislators did pass some efforts to strengthen the lake, there still needs to be more work.

Stories about the environment on the websites for KSL Radio and FOX 13 recently detailed several of these efforts to help with levels at the Great Salt Lake, as well as better monitor its environmental impact.

More legislation being proposed

When the Utah Legislature meets in 2024, it’s likely that the Great Salt Lake will be on the agenda again. The Great Salt Lake Caucus, which is part of the legislature, has been talking about what they want to do in recent press reports.

One bill that may return from previous sessions is for a ban on outdoor watering during what is considered “shoulder season,” October through May. This would help with conservation overall and in redistributing water to the Great Salt Lake.

There are also proposed infrastructure updates being suggested by some legislators. This includes limiting the use of grasses in future government buildings and banning them completely from parking areas and medians within roads.

Conservation and testing

Water conservation is a big part of the reasoning behind help efforts around the Great Salt Lake. Fox 13 in Salt Lake City reports that better water shepherding is already leading to that water being used in places where it needs to go, such as the lake.

At the same time, researchers in recent months found dust pollution in that area, since the lakebed has been more exposed to the elements. This also increases the potential for minerals like arsenic, magnesium, and strontium to be above allowable levels. To help with this particular issue, a group from the state’s Department of Environmental Quality will be meeting regularly to sample not only the Great Salt Lake but also other lakebeds in the state to get a better handle on the significance of this environmental problem.

Keeping in touch with Utah programs and laws

As part of the work we do for you, we watch closely what types of legislation and government programs may affect our residents. We also regularly speak with government and public officials to clarify what we feel will be the best impact for our special districts. In addition, we train board members and their staff, provide advocacy for key issues, and update laws and regulations, among other duties. Our website has more on what we can do for your district.