House approves bill to create Adopt-the-Outdoors position in DNR to attract private donations

Representative Owens introduced House Bill 274 to create an "Adopt the Outdoors" position in the Department of Natural Resources to package recreation projects for private investment and volunteer coordination. Owens said the $91,000 fiscal note covers the position and incidental costs and that the position would sunset after five years to evaluate effectiveness.

On the floor Representative Stanquist and others supported the proposal, emphasizing volunteer and corporate donation potential. Representative Chu raised a concern about long-term maintenance of sponsored projects, citing examples where volunteer-driven projects fell into disrepair; Owens replied the bill relies on DNR management and that many private sponsors provide ongoing volunteer maintenance.

The House voted to pass HB 274 (reported 39–31). The sponsor described the bill as intended to expand private-sector support for recreation resources across urban and rural Utah. The bill's floor discussion focused on maintenance and program management rather than changing permitting or land-use authorities.