SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation on Thursday announced the awarding of more than $20 million to 31 outdoor recreation projects across the state.
The funding, made possible through legislative appropriations and the Outdoor Adventure Infrastructure Fund, signifies an investment in the state’s outdoor amenities, ensuring access, sustainability and enhanced experiences for all Utahns and visitors.
In 2023, Utah’s outdoor recreation economy hit $9.5 billion, up 18% from the year before. People from Utah, the rest of the United States and international visitors have discovered Utah, and outdoor officials want to make sure the visitor experience meets their standards.
The awarded projects include a variety of initiatives, including new infrastructure development, restoration efforts, land acquisition, feasibility studies and long-term recreation planning.
The funding reflects the mission of the Outdoor Recreation Initiative, recently created by the Legislature and overseen by the division to champion stewardship, sustainable visitation, safety, education and community engagement across the state.
Utah, in fact, became the first state in the nation to have an office of outdoor recreation created in 2013 by then Utah Gov. Gary Herbert as part of an outdoor recreation “vision” project.
“Through the Outdoor Recreation Initiative, we are uniting efforts across Utah to build a brighter future for outdoor recreation by supporting local communities, building capacity and removing barriers at a regional level,” said Patrick Morrison, the division’s recreation program director. “The funding and creation of regional recreation councils demonstrates Utah’s commitment to enhancing outdoor spaces, preserving natural resources, and ensuring that every Utahn has access to the incredible opportunities our state has to offer.”
Highlights of the awarded projects:
- $3 million for the Beas-Lewis Campground project
- $2 million for connecting trails on Sand Mountain
- $1.7 million for the Lucerne Campground Restoration
- $1.3 million for the Kent’s Lake Campground Improvements
- $1.1 million for the Mud Springs Trail System
- $1 million each for Pineview Reservoir Phase 3, 2025 Port Ramp Reconstruction and Utah Avalanche Center Machine Learning Recreation Study
In addition, $518,000 will restore safe access to upper American Fork Canyon, a half million goes to the Ure Ranch Recreation Area Land acquisition and another $400,000 will help the North Wash Boat Ramp at Cataract Canyon.
“The ORI represents a collaborative approach to meeting the challenges of today’s recreation needs and being proactive about the future,” Morrison said. “By connecting local and regional voices, we’re fostering an inclusive and locally led vision for Utah’s outdoor future.”
For more information on the Division of Outdoor Recreation and available grants, visit recreation.utah.gov.
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