State of Utah Opposes Proposed Hook Canyon Project

Salt Lake City - Utah Governor Jon Huntsman has directed the Division of State Parks and Recreation to not move forward in negotiating an easement that would allow needed access for a proposed project on the east shore of Bear Lake, citing grave concerns for the well-being of the region.

Bear Lake, Utah: Photo by hanacy (CC)

"Bear Lake is one of the recreational gems of the State of Utah," Governor Huntsman said. "For generations people have enjoyed fishing and recreating on its clear, blue waters, camping on its pristine shores and enjoying the beauty of the entire valley. The actions the State is taking today will ensure that the Bear Lake is preserved in its present state for generations to come."

The State must balance the potential for societal benefit from projects such as this against the potential for unnecessary disruption of the social and natural fabric of the area involved. After input and collaboration from the State Public Lands Policy Coordination Office, other affected state agencies and local elected officials, it has been concluded that the potential for harm to the valuable Bear Lake region from the proposed pump storage project far outweighs the potential benefits.

Source: Utah Governor