Law professors nationally support a lawsuit claiming Utah neglected its duty to protect the Great Salt Lake.
Kyle Dunphey reports for the Utah News Dispatch.
In short:
- Thirty-six law professors filed an amicus brief arguing Utah violated its public trust responsibilities to maintain the Great Salt Lake's ecological health.
- The brief criticizes Utah's reliance on voluntary water conservation measures instead of enforcing legal mandates to protect the lake.
- Utah officials, defending their actions, argue that state laws and ongoing efforts are sufficient to manage the lake's resources.
Key quote:
"We have been — and will continue to — work to protect the interests of the state of Utah."
— Joel Ferry, executive director of the Utah Department of Natural Resources
Why this matters:
The Great Salt Lake, integral to Utah's natural heritage, has been facing unprecedented ecological strains. Diminishing water levels, exacerbated by prolonged droughts and intensified water diversion for agricultural and urban development, have brought the lake to near-historic lows. This stark reduction in water volume has implications for the lake's unique biodiversity, including millions of migratory birds that rely on the lake as a crucial stopover as well as for local air quality. The exposed lakebed could release toxic dust particles, posing severe public health risks to the surrounding communities.
More:
- Agriculture expert explores how today's relationship to food banishes nature and the environment to the periphery of how we live, instead of at the center.
