Environment (Parks & Recreation)

This bill is a concurrent resolution that expresses support for the continued federal management of Utah's public lands. It highlights the natural, historical, and cultural significance of these lands and acknowledges their economic contributions through recreation, tourism, and resource use. The resolution states that Utah's public lands should remain in the public domain and managed by federal agencies to preserve them for future generations. As a non-binding resolution, it does not create new laws or require funding but serves as an official statement of legislative sentiment.

SB 209 designates Gooseberry Narrows as a state park upon meeting three conditions: the Division of State Parks managing all federally-owned land there, completing a feasibility study by November 2026, and securing legislative funding. The bill requires the Division to study dam feasibility, land acquisition costs, and water rights needs, then report findings to the Natural Resources Committee. It authorizes the Division to acquire land via donations, exchanges, or purchases, coordinate with the U.S. Forest Service for land management, and consult with local governments holding property or water rights in the area. The bill has no funding attached and takes effect May 2026.

HB 30 creates the Wildlife Management Area Stewardship Fund, funded by voluntary contributions, to support habitat restoration, trail maintenance, and volunteer coordination in state wildlife areas. It repeals the previous requirement for hunting or fishing licenses to access these areas and instead mandates that recreational users (non-hunting, non-fishing visitors) in certain counties complete an approved educational video and obtain digital verification for entry. Exceptions include highway travel within the areas, participation in educational programs, or existing property rights. The bill directly affects non-hunting, non-fishing visitors and the Division of Wildlife Resources, which will manage the fund and oversee the educational requirements.