Committee backs Goshen Bay waterfowl management area to protect wetlands and recreation

Representative Walton presented HB 93 to designate Goshen Bay as a Waterfowl Management Area to preserve a marshy portion of Utah Lake shoreline amid growing development pressure. Walton said the area is currently in good condition and that designation would keep the land available for wildlife, hunting and fishing as nearby subdivisions expand.

Luke Peterson, executive director of the Utah Lake Authority, described multiagency conservation purchases in the area and told the committee the U.S. House had recently included roughly $2.5 million in appropriations for recreation-access improvements near Utah Lake. Division of Wildlife Resources staff and local officials testified they support the designation as a way to protect habitat and plan strategic access improvements.

After public comment and questions about acreage and existing grazing rights, Representative Arthur moved to pass HB 93 with a favorable recommendation. The committee voted to advance the bill.