On-the-Water Boat Show at Jordanelle State Park

ON-THE-WATER BOAT SHOW AT JORDANELLE STATE PARK Heber - Jordanelle State Park hosts the On-the-Water Boat Show Friday, May 16 from noon to 7 p.m., and Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. This event launches Utah Safe Boating Week.

Area boat dealers will showcase new model boats for purchase at great prices. Test drive a new boat before you buy it. Bring your boat for a free boat safety check by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. If your boat passes inspection, your day-use entrance is free!

Hamburgers, hotdogs and drinks will be available at very reasonable prices. Day-use fees are $10 per vehicle. Online discount coupon available May 12 at www.stateparks.utah.gov.

Jordanelle State Park is located off US 40 at the Mayflower Exit 8.
For more information, please call (801) 538-7220 or 877-UT-PARKS

Monte Cristo Snowmobiling with State Parks

We had the opportunity to go out snowmobiling with Ronald Bringhurst, Park Manager from State Parks and head out to the Monte Cristo area last Tuesday. We try and make this trip every so often to keep up with the latest things going on with State Parks and have a little fun.

Ronald took us out for a ride over to the Hardware Ranch area and did a interview that will be airing this Saturday morning on the Utah Outdoors on KSL Newsradio show. Ronald brought us up to speed on some of the issues he see's going on in the area.



Besides some of the obvious problems, Ronald stated his biggest concern is youth not wearing helmet's and the use of alcohol while riding snowmobiles. Many folks don't understand that it is the same as getting pulled over in a car and you CAN have your license taken away! Use common sense and leave the booze home.



We would always recommend that you check the current conditions before you go out. State Parks and the Utah Snowmobile Association put together a great grooming report for many of the trail within the Utah State Parks. Stop past and check out the report!



Some great maps are also available for all the complexes in Utah on the Utah Snowmobile Associations web site. Take a map with you and know how to use it!

Military Members and Veterans to be Admitted Free-of-Charge to National Parks on Veterans Day, November 11

All military personnel, active and retired, and their families will receive free admittance to any National Park Service site on Sunday, November 11, 2007 in honor of Veteran’s Day.

The 391 units of the National Park Service preserve and protect some of the country’s most significant scenic and cultural places. The website http://www.nps.gov/pub_aff/veterans/honor.htm provides information on National Park Service battlefields, military parks, and historic sites that commemorate the service of American veterans.

“I hope that all service members take advantage of this fee-free day and spend Sunday in a park making memories with their families,” said NPS Director Mary A. Bomar. “I am part of a military family and I know firsthand that time spent together is extremely precious. National parks provide wonderful opportunities for families to connect with each other while they explore our country’s natural, historical, and recreational treasures.”

The fee waiver applies to entrance fees only. Normally, 147 National Park Service sites charge entrance fees ranging from $3 to $25. Some parks might also waive other fees on an individual basis. Veteran’s Day and National Public Lands Day in September are the only annual dates when entrance fees are waived nationwide.

CELEBRATE FREE STATE PARKS DAY SEPTEMBER 29

Salt Lake - Celebrate Free State Parks Day and National Public Lands Day Saturday, September 29. Day-use fees will be waived at all Utah state parks. (Special fees, such as golf and camping fees still apply.) Visit for the day, attend a special event or volunteer to improve your state parks. Events that day include:

Antelope Island State Park Volunteer Project: Help clear built-up soil along a new three-mile section of the White Rock Bay Trail. Project begins at 9 a.m. Wear a long-sleeved shirt, hat, and sunscreen, and bring drinking water. RSVP / information: (801) 773-2941

Wasatch Mountain State Park Apple Picking at Huber Grove: Join park staff at 9:30 a.m. for this first apple picking harvest and learn to make apple juice using an old cider press. Explore the historic farmhouse, creamery, and orchard. This event is free. $3 per bag of apples. (435) 654-1791

Camp Floyd/Stagecoach Inn State Park and Museum Camp Floyd Day:
Experience stagecoach rides, museum tours, play period games, march and drill with re-enactors; watch a battle and shoot period firearms; Civil War encampment, food, music and entertainment. (801) 768-8932

Snow Canyon State Park Bats - Masters of the Night: Eighteen species of bats call Washington County home. Join Tom Haraden of Zion National Park at 6 p.m. and learn about their natural history and importance to our ecosystem. Space is limited and registration required. (435) 628-2255

Green River State Park Golf Course Fall Two-Person Scramble: Visit Green River for this tournament. Regular green fees apply and registration is required. (435) 564-8882.

Wasatch Mountain State Park Junior Ranger Program: Sun Catchers - Leaves. Children six through 12 can become a Junior Ranger by joining the naturalist for this one-hour program. Program begins at 1 p.m. at the Educational Yurt. (435) 654-1791 For more Utah State Parks events and activities, visit www.stateparks.utah.gov.

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UPCOMING UTAH STATE PARKS EVENTS

September 21 to September 23 Fremont Indian State Park and Museum Pottery Workshop: Learn to make pottery the Fremont way. Join instructors Scott Turner and Ruth Bradfield to discover primitive pottery making techniques. Each participant will make at least one pot of their own. The workshop is $60, and registration is required. (435)
527-4631

September 22 Dead Horse Point State Park Ranger Program - What They Leave Behind: Join the park naturalist at 6:30 p.m. at the amphitheater for this program on the tracks and scat left by animals of the Colorado Plateau. Kids attending this program can earn a Junior Ranger badge. (435) 259-2614

September 22 Antelope Island State Park
Where the Buffalo Roam, Life on Antelope Island Lecture: Join us at 2 p.m. for an informative lecture by former Fielding Garr Ranch hand Max Harward for an informative lecture on how Antelope Island’s ranchers lived at one of Utah’s earliest ranches. (801) 649-5742.

September 22 Kodachrome Basin State Park Kodachrome After Dark - Join volunteers from Bryce Canyon National Park for an astronomy program and stargazing. Come early and view the sun through the solar scope. Time: TBD (435) 679-8562

September 22 Snow Canyon State Park
Yoga on the Dunes - An Autumn Equinox Gathering: Experience poetry in motion from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Breathe in the magic of the majestic red mountains. Join Janice Brooks-Nichter for a morning of yoga, storytelling, song, and meditation. All ages welcome and registration is required. (435) 628-2255

September 23 Dead Horse Point State Park Junior Ranger Program - Ravens, Beauties or Campsite Pests? Join the park naturalist for a program about these fascinating birds at 10:30 a.m. in the amphitheater behind the visitor center. (435) 259-2614

Up, Up and Away at The Antelope Island Balloon Stampede

In 2006, the Davis Chamber of Commerce Lakesiders Committee dreamed a dream to create a premier “signature” event in Davis County where residents of the area would be able to join with visitors from around the state and surrounding regions in an annual celebration. Thus, the Antelope Island Balloon Stampede was born. There is no place on earth like Antelope Island, located in “America’s Dead Sea” to experience this visually spectacular event.

Balloon launches will take place each morning at sunrise (approximately 7:00 AM) and the ever popular Balloon Glow Friday and Saturday evening at dusk (all events are weather permitting). If you haven’t experienced the beauty of the island, this is a perfect opportunity to take in the incredible scenery and unforgettable sunsets, splashed with vivid colors of over 20+ balloons launching simultaneously.

During the day there will be several activities, including continuous live entertainment like Mid Life Crisis Friday night 7:30-9:30 PM and Full Circle Saturday night 7:00-10:00 PM, both local favorites. Additional bands and entertainment acts will perform throughout the day and drawings for great prize give-a-ways will take place all through the event. Food and Gift vendors will be plentiful, offering everything from giant inflatable toys, custom handmade jewelry, buffalo burgers and much, much more.

Bring the whole family because there is something for everyone. The Kids Corral (Saturday 9-5) will have Face Painting, make-your-own Bird Feeders, Story Tellers and a Movie area - and don’t miss the Magician!

Admission to the Island is only $10.00 per carload and $5.00 for bicycles and seniors. Advance tickets are available at SmithsTix at no added cost.

The Antelope Island Balloon Stampede
Friday Sept. 21, and Saturday Sept. 22, 2007
www.antelopeballoons.com
call Kathi Dysert, Davis Area Chamber of Commerce 801-774-8200

Jordanelle State Park Closures

Heber City—Jordanelle State Park has been reaching capacity to incoming traffic for both general day use and boating between 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM on weekends and holidays. Please plan ahead and arrive early on weekends or visit the park during the week. All boats are welcome to launch at Hailstone. Rock Cliff boat launch is reserved for small fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, etc…

For more information please call the park at (435) 649-9540 or (435) 782-3030.

Low Water Levels Force Closures at Willard Bay

Willard - Boat launch ramps, docks, and reservoir access at Willard Bay State Park have been closed due to low water levels. Boaters choosing to access the reservoir must do so at their own risk and are advised to use extreme caution.

Boat docks and slips are unusable due to the low water. According to Assistant Park Manager Christopher Bradshaw, docks at both the North and South marinas are on dry ground.

“There is approximately 2.5 feet of water at the base of the launch ramps, and one to three feet in other parts of the marinas, with an average of depth of nine feet throughout the reservoir,” added Bradshaw.

The Bureau of Reclamation and Weber Basin Water Conservancy District have completed temporary repair of the dam, which allows Weber Basin to fill only to 45% of capacity.

Water levels at Willard Bay Reservoir will continue to drop as the Weber Basin Water Conservancy District supplies irrigation water to their water users, and regular evaporation continues.

Typically, Willard Bay Reservoir loses two feet of water each summer to evaporation,” reported Park Manager Roland Bringhurst. “Boaters need to be very cautious and watch for hazards throughout the reservoir.”

Low water has also affected irrigation systems at Willard Bay State Park. Park Maintenance Specialist Kevin Valcarce stated that water levels are below the level of sprinkler pumps, and as result lawn areas will not be irrigated this year.

Camping and day-use facilities are available and park fees remain in effect.

PARKS, POTS, AND PESKY CRITTERS, MUCH TO DO IN UTAH'S STATE PARKS

Salt Lake - Utah’s state parks host of a variety of events throughout the summer, with something for everyone. For more information about these and other events, go to www.stateparks.utah.gov.

June 22 to June 24 Fremont Indian State Park Museum Primitive Pottery Workshop: Instructors teach primitive pottery making in beautiful Castlerock Campground. Each participant will make at least one pot to take home. Pre-registration is required and camping reservations are highly recommended. (435) 527-4631

June 22 Jordanelle State Park/Hailstone Recreation Area Pesky Critter Crew: The Park Naturalist walks through the campground during the evening discussing the good, the bad, and the importance of each critter. (435) 649-9540 or (435) 782-3030

June 23 Jordanelle State Park/Rock Cliff Recreation Area Just for Kids Junior Ranger Program: From 11 a.m. to noon, children six to 10 are invited to the Nature Center to learn about pesky critters:
raccoons, skunks, rattlesnakes, and the quagga mussel. What’s the big stink! Children earn a badge and certificate. (435) 782-3030

June 23 Hyrum State Park
In The Forest: Join Forest Ranger Dave Hawkes of Franklin, Idaho at 7 p.m. to hear about the Cache National Forest. This program is held at the Group Area and is free! (435) 245-6866

June 23 Wasatch Mountain State Park
Just for Kids Junior Ranger Program: Wild About Wildflowers! Children six through 12 can become a Junior Ranger by joining the naturalist at this one-hour program designed to get kids excited about nature! Program begins at 1 p.m. at the Educational Yurt. (435) 654-1791

June 23 Wasatch Mountain State Park
Many Faces of Bats! How many species of bats are there? Are they helpful or harmful to humans? Learn the answers to these and many other “bat myths” during this program at 9 p.m. at the campground amphitheater. (435) 654-1791

June 23 Antelope Island State Park
Machinery of the Past, Old time Engines: Join us at 2 p.m. for an informative presentation on historic engines at one of Utah’s earliest ranches, the Fielding Garr Ranch on Antelope Island State Park. (801)
773-2941

STATE PARKS BOATING RANGERS OFFER LAUNCH RAMP TIPS

Salt Lake City - Utah State Parks boating rangers offer their top tips to avoid stress, stares, and honking horns at the launch ramp.

Prior to backing down the ramp, transfer all items from the tow vehicle to the boat.

Unhook the boat from the winch after the vessel is in the water, not before. Once your boat is splashed, have your crew secure it to the dock while you park your tow vehicle and trailer.

Offer assistance if someone needs help. If you are new to launching, practice beforehand in a large, uncrowded parking.

Trailer parking spaces are for tow vehicles and trailers only. Guests should park elsewhere.

Get into a routine at the ramp and use a checklist.

When returning to a ramp, drop off the person who will get the tow vehicle and trailer, and wait for them in an out of the way location.

After the boat is on the trailer, secure safety chain and winch to the bow eye and move up the ramp. Secure remaining tie downs and transfer items to the tow vehicle when you get back to the parking lot.

Launch ramps can become very busy. If you are retrieving your vessel at a busy ramp, stay back out of the fray until your trailer is in a position to receive your vessel.

Youth 12 years old and younger must wear a lifejacket while onboard any vessel, and Utah State Parks Rangers encourage everyone to do so.

Public Comment Sought on Future of Yuba State Park

Utah State Parks and Recreation is developing a resource management plan (RMP) for Yuba State Park. The RMP will identify issues relating to public use, resource management, future development at the park, and make recommendations to guide park managers for the next 10 years.

The Yuba State Park planning meeting will be held Tuesday, June 5, 2007 at 7 p.m. in the Commission Chambers of the Juab County Courthouse, 160 N Main in Nephi, Utah.

Park visitors and concerned citizens are encouraged to assist in development of the plan by attending this meeting. State park planners will present the planning process and lead an exercise to identify and prioritize issues relating to the park.

Members of the community, park visitors, and other interested parties are welcome and encouraged to attend. For additional information, please contact Shannon Peterson at (801) 538-7207.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, anyone needing special accommodations (including auxiliary communicative aids and
services) should contact Wendy Griffith at (801) 538-7362 at least five working days before the meeting.

Memorial Day Weekend Campground Updates and Events

Savvy campers have already booked their campsites for Memorial Day Weekend. Some campsites and group-use areas remain available. To reserve a site, call (801) 322-3770 or 1-800-322-3770 from outside the Salt Lake area.

State parks with individual campsites available include: Antelope Island, Bear Lake, Red Fleet, Starvation, Utah Lake, and Yuba state parks.

Overnight and day-use group sites are available at: East Canyon, Deer Creek, Rockport, Wasatch Mountain, and Willard Bay state parks.

Utah’s state parks host a variety of Memorial Day Weekend Events, from star parties and Junior Ranger programs to golf tournaments and buffalo chip tossing contests. Check out www.stateparks.utah.gov for a full list of events.

Utah State Parks Launch and Reservoir Report

Please find below, launch ramp and water conditions as of May 7. All Utah State Parks campgrounds located at lakes and reservoirs are open for the season. Reservations are available by calling (801) 322-3770 or 1-800-322-3770 from outside the Salt Lake area:

Bear Lake State Park Marina: Launch ramp open, 42 degrees
Deer Creek State Park: Launch ramp open, 46 degrees
East Canyon State Park: Launch ramp open, 45 degrees
Wide Hollow at Escalante State Park: Launch ramp open, 55 degrees
Great Salt Lake State Marina: Launch ramp open, 46 degrees
Gunlock State Park: Launch ramp open, 50 degrees
Huntington State Park: Launch ramp CLOSED, 43 degrees
Hyrum Lake State Park: Launch ramp open, 63 degrees
Jordanelle State Park: Launch ramp open, 45 degrees
Millsite State Park: Launch ramp open, 44 degrees
Otter Creek State Park: Launch ramp open, 43 degrees
Palisade State Park: Launch ramp open, 48 degrees
Piute State Park: Launch ramp open, 45 degrees
Quail Creek State Park: Launch ramp open, 59 degrees
Red Fleet State Park: Launch ramp open, 54 degrees
Rockport State Park: Launch ramp open, 45 degrees
Sand Hollow State Park: Launch ramp open, 58 degrees
Scofield State Park: Launch ramp open, 42 degrees
Starvation State Park: Launch ramp open, 52 degrees
Steinaker State Park: Launch ramp open, 54 degrees
Utah Lake State Park: Launch ramp open, 59 degrees
Willard Bay State Park: North Marina launch ramp open, 60 degrees
Yuba State Park: Launch ramp open, 60 degrees

Utah State Parks Unveils the New Geocache Adventure Program

With the calm blue gray waters of the Great Salt Lake in the background is was a beautiful day for Utah State Parks to unveil the new Geocache Adventure at the Great Salt Lake State Marina and what a fantastic program to help get us all out visiting the Utah State Parks. Governor Jon Huntsman Jr. joined many members of the Utah State Parks Staff and Media to announce the a new program to help give people a reason to get out to the State's 42 heritage, scenic, and recreation parks. Sponsored in part with the help of the Best Western Hotels and Magellan GPS, the Geocache Adventure holds just that, adventure at all of 42 Utah State Parks!

What is geocaching? Geocaching is a great family activity. It's a kind of high-tech treasure hunt using a global positioning satellite (GPS) unit. Participants enter coordinates into a GPS unit, which leads them to the hidden geocache.

Throughout the year, all participating parks offer free rental of Magellan GPS units to anyone who wants to play. Explore museums and parks - exhibits, trails, shorelines, and visitor centers, and find the hidden geocache. Inside each cache, visitors will find free small gifts, and if they're lucky, a limited edition 50th Anniversary commemorative coin. Geocoins will be placed randomly statewide, throughout the year.

Geaocaching is just one of the many adventures and activities planned as Utah State Parks celebrates its 50^th Anniversary. Stop past the www.stateparks.utah.gov web site for more details and a current event schedule.

Save Money - Fish on a Weekday

Fees reduced for anglers at Utah state parks

You can save money -- and fish during one of the quietest times of the week -- by fishing at a Utah state park on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday.

From now until the end of the year, anglers who have a valid 365-day Utah fishing or combination license can save up to 50 percent off the regular day-use fee when they visit a Utah state boating park on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday.

Utah residents who are 62 years of age and older will receive up to half off the senior day-use fee.

The state park day-use fee covers up to eight people traveling in the same private vehicle. This discount offer continues through the year, but it’s not valid on holidays.

To receive the discount, all you have to do is show your valid fishing or combination license as you enter the park. Your group needs only one valid fishing license to receive the discount, but everyone in the group who wants to fish must have a valid Utah fishing or combination license.

Fishing and combination licenses are available at www.wildlife.utah.gov and from fishing and hunting license agents and Division of Wildlife Resources offices across the state.

State Parks Board to Hear Public Comment on This Is The Place Heritage Park

Salt Lake City - The Board of Utah State Parks and Recreation will hold a public meeting regarding a proposed land lease plan by the This Is The Place Foundation Board. The meeting is scheduled Thursday, April 19, 2007 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the conference room at the Department of Natural Resources, 1594 West North Temple in Salt Lake City.

This Is the Place Foundation is proposing to lease park acreage within This Is The Place Heritage Park to ARUP Laboratories. This Is The Place Heritage Park is located at the mouth of Emigration Canyon across from Hogle Zoo.

Those who are unable to attend the meeting are welcome to send comments to parkcomment@utah.gov or Utah State Parks - TITP Comment at P.O. Box 146001, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6001,

In compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons needing auxiliary communicative aids and services for this meeting should call (801) 538-7220, giving at least three working days notice.

UPCOMING UTAH STATE PARKS EVENTS

April 10 Iron Mission State Park Museum - Cedar City
50th Anniversary Program- Utah*s First Capitol: Join Utah State Parks Museum Curator Carl Camp at 7 p.m. for this informative presentation.
This event is open and free to the public. For more information, please call (435) 586-9290.

April 13 Territorial Statehouse State Park Museum -
Fillmore
Join Doug Jolly, local artist and art teacher, as he discusses the main processes involved in creating pottery and dishes. A second presentation discusses how to identify pottery and ceramics including fine china, the history, and where they were made. Following the lectures, the new exhibit will open. For more information, please call (435) 743-5316.

April 14 Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum - Blanding
Artist Reception: Join artist Leo Platero as he speaks about his exhibit Through the Eyes of a Sheepherder, which includes his artwork in oil, acrylics, multi-media landscapes and abstracts as well as pottery and sculpture. This event is open and free to the public. For more information, please call (435) 678-2238.

April 14 Snow Canyon State Park - Ivins
Exploring Desert Potholes: Fairy shrimp, tadpole shrimp, clam shrimp and more*study the amazing organisms dependent on desert potholes during a two-mile roundtrip hike beginning at 9 a.m. Space is limited and registration is required. For more information, please call (435) 628-2255.

OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLE SAFETY ENCOURAGED OVER EASTER WEEKEND

Salt Lake -- Utah State Park off-highway vehicle (OHV) managers remind everyone to ride safely and responsibly over the Easter holiday. Riders should be properly trained and prepared, and ride in a responsible manner.

Utah State Parks urges parents to enroll children in a Know Before You Go! training course, which is required by Utah law. By passing this course, drivers eight through 16 may legally operate an OHV. Drivers 16 years and older must have a valid driver*s license or OHV education certificate. Remember, children under age eight cannot operate an OHV on public land.

In addition to preparation and training, Utah State Parks OHV Education Specialist Ann Evans offers the following guidelines for safe OHV
riding:

- Always wear a safety-rated and properly fitted helmet, goggles, clothing covering arms and legs, and over-the-ankle boots.
- Check mechanical controls and safety devices on your machine before you ride to ensure proper operation.
- Do not take alcohol or drugs along for the ride.
- Ride your OHV only in areas designated for their use. The best way to protect your riding privilege is to stay on the trail.
- Do not carry passengers on single-person machines. However, never ride alone and always let someone know your itinerary.
- Carry tools and survival gear in the event of changing weather conditions and mechanical failure.
- Respect closed areas and private property. Don't cut switchbacks or take shortcuts. Remember, areas signed as wilderness are closed to all motorized vehicles.
- -OHVs should not to be used as *babysitters* by parents at any time, especially in campgrounds or neighborhood roads.

To register for Know Before You Go! classes or for information on OHV laws and riding areas, contact the OHV Information Center at (801)
538-7433 from within Salt Lake City, or 1-800-OHV-RIDE (648-7433) from outside the area.

Plan Ahead for Spring Storms and Cold Water

Salt Lake City - As air temperatures warm and ice melts off the reservoirs, Utah State Parks boating officials remind everyone to be aware of the dangers of sudden spring storms and cold water temperatures.

*You never know when you might end up in the water. Life jackets not only keep you afloat, but provide an extra layer of warmth,* said State Boating Coordinator Dave Harris. *The combination of additional heat and flotation might mean the difference between life and death.
Wearing a life jacket can also aid in self-rescue, providing you with extra time to climb back into your boat.* He reported that if someone fell into 40-degree water, they could survive perhaps five to 10 minutes before succumbing to hypothermia.

Statistics prove the importance of wearing life jackets. Three of four people who drowned in boating accidents would not have died had they worn a life jacket.

State boating law requires all children 12 years of age and younger to wear a life jacket while a boat is in operation, and it is recommended that all boaters wear a life jacket at all times.

Also, always tell someone your boating plans including where you are going and what time you will return. Remember to check local weather conditions. Sudden spring storms occur quickly, and often are accompanied by severe winds.

UPCOMING UTAH STATE PARKS EVENTS

April 1 Antelope Island State Park - Syracuse
Art Gallery: John Van Natter displays color photographs in the visitor center art gallery. For more information, please call (801) 725-9263.

April 3 Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum - Blanding
Range Creek Exhibit: The Utah Museum of Natural History provides an informative display explaining the history of human interaction with the land at Range Creek. Once a private and protected ranch situated near the Book Cliffs, Range Creek is the site of a large complex of Fremont habitations. The area, now protected by the state of Utah, has been the recent location of excavation and research in an effort to learn more about the Fremont people. The exhibit includes artifacts from Range Creek. For more information, please call (435) 678-2238.

April 6 Antelope Island State Park - Syracuse
Slide Program: Antelope Island State Park provides ample resources for a variety of intriguing mammal species. Join the park naturalist for an intimate look into the lives of the island*s mammals. Participants should meet at the visitor center at 3 p.m. For more information, please call (801) 721-9569.

April 7 Goblin Valley State Park - Green River
Crazy About Snakes! Join Carol at 2:30 p.m. and learn about the local gopher snakes. Face your fear, and meet live snakes. For more information, please call (435) 564-3633.

April 7 Utah Field House of Natural History State Park
Museum - Vernal
Dippy the Dino Easter Egg Hunt: Join park staff from 9 to 10 a.m. Egg hunts available for children ages 1 to 3, and 4 to 8 years old. For more information, please call (435) 789-3799.

April 7 Antelope Island State Park - Syracuse
Easter Events: Join the park naturalist at 10 a.m. at the visitor center for this Junior Ranger island hunt for rabbit abodes.
Participants should dress for the weather conditions, wear sturdy shoes, and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, bug repellent. (801) 721-9569. At
11 a.m. visit the Fielding Garr Ranch for an Easter egg hunt at 11 a.m.
Other activities include a fish pond, face painting, pictures with the Easter bunny, farm ball, and gunny sack races. Prizes will be given for all activities. (801) 649-5742. And at 2 p.m. in the visitor center, join park staff for an audiovisual tour of scenic Great Salt Lake featuring the photographs of Charles Uibel and Keith Vaught. Feel the desolation, energy, solitude, and excitement of the Great Basin on this photographic tour.

April 7 Snow Canyon State Park - Ivins
Spring Constellations: Bring a lawn chair and join park staff beginning at 8:30 p.m., for an evening of myth, legend, and lore. Learn the stories behind several spring constellations and how to spot them in the night sky. For more information, please call (435) 628-2255.

April 7 Fremont Indian State Park - Sevier
17th Annual Easter Egg Hunt: Children 12 and under can join park staff for an Easter egg hunt including candy and prizes. Events begin at 9 a.m. sharp. For more information, please call (435) 527-4631.

April 7 Wasatch Mountain State Park - Midway
Natural Plant Dyes: Stop by the visitor center between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to learn about various plants that can be used as natural dyes.
Instead of using store-bought dyes, learn how people from ages past dyed everything from clothing to Easter eggs. Boiled eggs will be provided.
There is no charge, however, donations are gladly accepted. For more information, please call (435) 654-1791.

Campsites Available Now for Memorial Day Weekend

Salt Lake - Even though Memorial Day is still two months away, it*s not too early to reserve a campsite at a Utah state park. The following parks have campsites available for the big weekend, but are filling up
quickly: Antelope Island, Bear Lake, Deer Creek, East Canyon, Fremont Indian, Jordanelle, Kodachrome, Red Fleet, Rockport, Scofield, Snow Canyon, Starvation, Steinaker, Utah Lake, Wasatch Mountain, Willard Bay, and Yuba.

To make a reservation or for more information, please call (801) 322-3770 from within the Salt Lake calling area and (800) 322-3770 from outside the area or visit www.stateparks.utah.gov.

Fees Reduced for Anglers at Utah State Parks

Salt Lake -- Beginning April 1, it will cost less to fish at Utah*s state boating parks with a valid 365-day Utah fishing or combination license. License holders save up to half off the regular day-use fee Tuesday through Thursday. Utah residents 62 years and older receive up to half off the senior day-use fee. Day-use fee covers up to eight people in the same private vehicle. Offer continues throughout the year, but is not valid on holidays.

Present the valid license when entering the park to receive the discount. Only one valid fishing license is required to receive the discount, however anyone planning to fish must have a valid Utah fishing license. Fishing and combination licenses are available at wildlife.utah.gov and from license agents and Division offices.

UPCOMING UTAH STATE PARKS EVENTS

March 24 Snow Canyon State Park - Ivins
Lava Tubes Tour: Join Naturalist Caitlin Hutter beginning at 5 p.m., for a two-mile roundtrip hike and a chance to explore the unique formations of a lava tube. Space is limited and registration is required. For more information, please call (435) 628-2255.

March 31 Snow Canyon State Park - Ivins
Desert Survival Basics: Todd Goss, former Navy Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) instructor teaches desert survival skills from basic navigation to the construction of solar stills beginning at 2:30 p.m. Space is limited and registration is required. For more information, please call (435) 628-2255.

April 7 Fielding Garr Ranch
Antelope Island State Park - Syracuse
Junior Ranger Program: Join park staff at 2 p.m., to learn about how sheep were sheared and wool was processed at one of Utah*s earliest ranches, the historic Fielding Garr Ranch on Antelope Island. Though this informative Junior Ranger Program is geared for those six to 12, everyone is welcome. For more information call (801) 649-5742.

PURCHASE ANNUAL STATE PARKS PASSES NOW

Salt Lake City - With the summer season approaching, now is the time to purchase your Utah State Parks Annual Pass. The $70 Annual Pass waives day-use fees into most state parks. Passes do not discount overnight camping or special use fees, such as golf.

Utah seniors, 62 and over, may purchase a Senior Adventure Pass for $35. The Adventure Pass offers the same benefits as the Annual Pass.

You may also request a free Utah Field Guide. This brochure offers vacation ideas, descriptions, photographs, and facilities at Utah*s 42 state parks.

If you are planning to boat, fish, picnic, or visit any state park museum, buy your pass and pick up your free Utah Field Guide. Passes may be purchased at any state park, region office, or the Salt Lake office located at 1594 West North Temple. For more information, please call (801) 538-7220 or toll free 877-UTPARKS.

Utah State Parks celebrates 50 years as Utah*s recreation authority throughout 2007. Explore the beauty and history of Utah*s 42 state parks and museums with an annual pass, your passport to discovery.
Visit www.stateparks.utah.gov for a list of current events.

EASTER WEEKEND EVENTS AND CAMPING

Salt Lake - If you are planning a trip Easter Weekend, it*s not too late to reserve a campsite at a Utah state park. The following parks have campsites available, but are filling up quickly: East Canyon, Millsite, Otter Creek, Palisade, Wasatch Mountain, Willard Bay and Yuba.

To make a reservation or for more information, please call (801) 322-3770 from within the Salt Lake calling area and (800) 322-3770 from outside the area or visit www.stateparks.utah.gov.

Special Easter events are held at the following state parks:

April 7 Antelope Island State Park - Syracuse
Fielding Garr Ranch Easter Celebration: Join us in celebrating Easter with an Easter egg hunt at 11 a.m. Other activities include a fish pond, face painting, pictures with the Easter bunny, farm ball at 1 and 3 p.m.
gunny sack races at 2:00, 3:00, and 4 p.m. Prizes will be given for all activities. For more information call (801) 649-5742.

April 7 Fremont Indian State Park and Museum - Sevier
17th Annual Easter Egg Hunt: Children 12 and under can join park staff for an Easter egg hunt including candy and prizes. Events begin at 9 a.m. sharp. For more information, please call (435) 527-4631.

PUEBLO POTTERY WORKSHOP AT EDGE OF THE CEDARS

Blanding- Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum staff host potters Emma Lewis Mitchell and Dolores Lewis Garcia May 14 through 18 teaching students the art of making traditional Acoma Pueblo pottery.

The workshop is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the museum. Participants will learn from and work with the talented and skilled Lewis sisters.
Participants work with Acoma clay to fashion their own small pots, which they will finish with rubbing stones, slip and paint with yucca brushes, and watch as their pots are fired in an outdoor kiln. Each participant will be able to create and finish several small pots, and perhaps even a canteen or ladle.

The Lewis sisters have been teaching the art of pottery making for decades and they enjoy sharing a wealth of tradition, stories, and family history. Their pottery is well known by collectors and has won
many awards. The workshop also includes a field trip to look for clay
sources, a chance to view the documentary, Daughters of the Anasazi, and a backroom collections tour of the Museum.

The workshop is limited to 15 participants and pre-registration is required. For workshop pricing or to register, please call (435) 678-2238.

UTAH STATE PARKS STATEWIDE GROOMING ENDS APRIL 1

Salt Lake -- With the onset of spring conditions across much of the state, the Division of Utah State Parks and Recreation announces an end to its 2006 snowmobile trail grooming season effective April 1.

Utah State Parks operates 11 snowmobile trail groomers on nine distinct snowmobile trail complexes in the state. These complexes stretch from Logan Canyon to Cedar Mountain.

*We*ve had a good snowmobile season,* said Fred Hayes, OHV program coordinator with Utah State Parks. *Since we began grooming in November, our groomers have maintained over 25,000 miles of trail for public use. However, with spring conditions limiting groomer access on many complexes, and with the current budgetary constraints, it is time to wrap up this season.*

For additional information, please call (801) 538-7220 or 1-800-OHV-RIDE.

Utah State Parks and Recreation administers the state off-highway vehicle program, providing education, access, trail maintenance, and enforcement.

UTAH STATE PARKS SNOWMOBILE GROOMING REPORT

Hardware Ranch:
March 11 * No grooming from Hardware Ranch for remainder of season.

Monte Cristo:
March 6 - 53* of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 68* at Monte Cristo Grooming completed:
March 5 - Arb*s Basin, Wasatch Ridge, SR-39 to mile 52, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek March 4 - Wasatch Ridge, Arb*s Basin, Mile 52 on SR 39, Ant Flat to Rocking C March 3rd * Arb*s Basin, SR-39 March 1st * Loop February 28 * Wasatch Ridge, Millies Spring, Ant Flat to Lazy S February 26* Red Spur

Bear Lake / Logan Canyon:
March 11 * Sinks Area groomed, snow is mushy. Grooming season ends April 1 or before if snow melts completely.
Grooming completed:
March 11 * Sinks Trail, Swan Flat
March 10 * Amazon, Beaver Creek
March 5 - Franklin Basin, Tony Grove
Garden City - Done for the year

Wasatch Mountian:
Grooming Completed:
March 1 - Snake Creek, American Fork Canyon from Pole Line Pass February 27 * Cummings Parkway to Cascade Springs Alpine Loop, Cascade Springs Road not groomed due to lack of snow Pine Canyon groomed last week, little snow near trailhead

Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow:
March 2 * Two to four feet at upper elevations. Beware of avalanche danger. Nobletts area groomed Friday and Saturday.

Bear River Service to Whitney:
As nighttime temperatures stay cold enough, groomers will continue to work trails.

Uintah Basin:
Grooming completed:
March 3 * All trails groomed, except 191 to East McKee due to lack of snow. Snow melting rapidly.

Scofield / Joe*s Valley / Skyline Drive:
Grooming completed:
March 13 - North Skyline has 18-24* trailhead at Fairview top, last groomed February 28; Fish Creek Ridge has 18-24* and was last groomed on February 23; Tucker/Starvation/Pondtown has 8-12* at trailheads and 16*on top, last groomed February 28. Pondtown has dangerous hazards about three miles up from trailhead. Parts of Starvation/Tucker not groomed due to lack of snow.
March 15 - Miller*s Flat has 18-24* and last groomed March 7; Joe*s Valley has 10-12* at lower trailhead and 18-24* of Middle Mt., trail last groomed March 7.

Mt Nebo:
New snow up on the very top, but very little after Payson Lake. Nine new inches at the towers and across to the Santaquin Road. Many drifts, but entire trail was groomed this week.

Ephraim / Manti / 12 mile:
February 25 * Two to three inches at trailhead, 10 inches at Bluebell. Heavy drifts - avalanche danger is very high. Please use extreme caution. Twelve-mile is rough.

Fish Lake:
Grooming completed this past week on Fish Lake Mountain, but won*t be groomed again until more snow falls.

Cedar Mountain / East Fork:
March 10 - Midway, Cedar Breaks and Brian Head (no new snow on mountain and existing snow is melting) March 1 - Midway, Sage Valley, and part of Duck Creek (also know as Lava Flow run) were groomed.

Strawberry:
March 9 * Much new snow and ideal snowmobile conditions, but be aware of dangerous avalanche conditions. Grooming ends April 1.

UTAH STATE PARKS RESERVOIR AND LAKE REPORT

Ice is melting at many lakes and reservoirs, please use extreme caution. Utah State Parks encourages all boaters to wear their life jackets.

Bear Lake State Park Marina - Frozen, 10 inches of ice
Deer Creek State Park - Frozen
East Canyon State Park * Frozen, 6 to 8 inches of ice, parts of lake melting
Wide Hollow at Escalante State Park * Launch ramp open, 45 degrees
Great Salt Lake State Marina * Launch ramp open, 26 degrees
Gunlock State Park - Launch ramp open, 46 degrees
Huntington State Park * Open water, 30 degrees
Hyrum Lake State Park * Mostly ice, melting at shoreline
Jordanelle State Park * Mostly ice
Millsite State Park * Open water, 30 degrees (dock not accessible)
Otter Creek State Park * Open water, 30 degrees
Palisade State Park * Mostly ice, 36 degrees
Piute State Park * Frozen
Quail Creek State Park * Open water, 40 degrees
Red Fleet State Park * Frozen, 16 inches of ice
Rockport State Park * Mostly ice, 36 degrees
Sand Hollow State Park * Launch ramp open, 41 degrees
Scofield State Park * Frozen, 12+ inches of ice
Starvation State Park * Mostly ice
Steinaker State Park * Frozen, 16 inches of ice
Utah Lake State Park * Frozen
Willard Bay State Park * North Marina launch ramp open, 32 degrees
Yuba State Park * Frozen, very thin ice
Strawberry * Frozen, 12-15 inches of ice
Flaming Gorge * Mostly ice

UPCOMING UTAH STATE PARKS EVENTS

March 20 Iron Mission State Park Museum - Cedar City
50TH ANNIVERSARY PROGRAM- Utah State Parks: Preserving Utah for Future Generations Join Goblin Valley State Park Assistant Manager Megan Blackwelder at 7 p.m. for the engaging presentation. The event is open and free to the public. For more information, please call (435) 586-9290.

March 21 Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum - Blanding
Celebrate the first day of spring with a field trip with Vaughn Hadenfeldt from Far Out Adventures and Edge of the Cedars Archaeologist Rebecca Stoneman. Come explore the hidden archaeological treasures of Cedar Mesa, the highest density of Ancestral Puebloan sites in the Southwest. Cost is $115 and includes lunch and transportation. This event is a fundraising activity for the Edge of the Cedars Education Fund. For more information please call (435) 678-2238 or visit www.faroutexpeditions.com.

March 22 - 23 Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum - Blanding
Pottery Demonstration by Gregory Holiday: Join talented potter Gregory Holiday from 1 - 5 p.m. for a demonstration on all the stages of pottery making. This program is in conjunction with Holiday's Colors From The Earth exhibit on display until mid-May. Pottery and effigy figures will be available to purchase. This special event is free and open to the public. For more information, please call (435) 678-2238.

March 24 Wasatch Mountain State Park - Midway
50th Anniversary Celebration of Spring- Night Noise: Join the park naturalist at 7 p.m., to discover the park at night along the three-mile Visitor Center Trail. Night sounds challenge us to give up our dependence on sight, and rely on its lesser-developed cousin, our hearing. Meet at the Educational Yurt near the visitor center, dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. For more information call (435) 654-1791.

March 30 Territorial Statehouse State Park Museum - Fillmore
Carol Nielson gives a presentation on a pioneer quilt created in 1857 by the women of the Salt Lake 14th Ward beginning at 6 p.m. Carol's family inherited half of the quilt and her presentation is on her search for the other half. She talks about the lives and stories of the women who created and stitched this heirloom. For more information, please call (435) 527-4631.

Fenced In or Fenced Out at Anasazi State Park Museum

Boulder - Anasazi State Park Museum staff hosts Fenced In or Fenced Out? Between Fences March 23 - May 12. This is a Museum on Main Street exhibition organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service, funded by the U.S. Congress, and brought to visitors by the Utah Humanities Council.

This thought-provoking exhibit displays the dominant features in our lives and our history. Thousands of types have been invented, millions of miles have been produced, and countless rivals have seized post, rail, panel, and wire to stake their claims. In 1871, the Department of Agriculture estimated the total value of fences in the United States at
1.7 billion, a sum almost equal to the national debt.

In addition to this traveling exhibition, Anasazi State Park Museum features an incredible collection of Ancestral Puebloan pottery and artifacts. For more information, please call (435) 335-7308.

UTAH STATE PARKS RESERVOIR AND LAKE REPORT, MARCH 5

Ice is melting at many lakes and reservoirs, please use extreme caution. Utah State Parks encourages all boaters to wear their life jackets.

Bear Lake State Park Marina: Frozen, ice 12
Deer Creek State Park: Frozen
East Canyon State Park: Melting at shoreline, 10-12 in some places
Wide Hollow at Escalante State Park: Launch ramp open, 45 degrees
Great Salt Lake State Marina: Launch ramp open, 33 degrees
Gunlock State Park: Launch ramp open, 48 degrees
Huntington State Park: Frozen, ice 3-6
Hyrum Lake State Park: Melted at shoreline, 36 degrees
Jordanelle State Park: Mostly frozen, melting
Millsite State Park: Frozen, ice 4-6
Otter Creek State Park: Frozen
Palisade State Park: Frozen
Piute State Park: Frozen
Quail Creek State Park: Launch ramp open, 45 degrees
Red Fleet State Park: Frozen, ice 12+
Rockport State Park: Melting at shoreline - access difficult, ice 8-12
Sand Hollow State Park: Launch ramp open, 41 degrees
Scofield State Park: Frozen, ice 12+
Starvation State Park: Frozen, ice 12+
Steinaker State Park: Frozen, ice 12+
Utah Lake State Park: Melting, some open water
Willard Bay State Park: Melting, some ice
Yuba State Park: Melting at shoreline, some ice
Strawberry: Frozen
Flaming Gorge: Mostly frozen

UTAH STATE PARKS SNOWMOBILE GROOMING REPORT, MARCH 5

Due to recent and expected snow, reports change frequently. Please check snowut.com for updated information. Utah State Park Rangers encourage all snowmobile riders to use extreme caution and obtain an avalanche advisory before venturing into the backcountry by calling 1-800-OHV-RIDE. Be prepared with appropriate avalanche gear and training.

Hardware Ranch:
Friday night groomed north from Hardware Ranch to Strawberry Valley to Elk Valley Guard Station and the Sinks turnaround. Trail conditions are great and there is a lot of snow in the Sinks and at the ranch.

Monte Cristo:
As of March 5, 2007 there is 53* of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 68* at Monte Cristo.
Grooming has been done on the following dates and locations:
Sunday, March 5 * Arb*s Basin, Wasatch Ridge, SR-39 to mile 52, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek Saturday, March 4 * Wasatch Ridge, Arb*s Basin, Mile 52 on SR 39, Ant Flat to Rocking C Friday, March 3 * Arb*s Basin, SR-39 Thursday, March 1 * Loop Wednesday, February 28 * Wasatch Ridge, Millies Spring, Ant Flat to Lazy S Monday, February 26 * Red Spur

Bear Lake / Logan Canyon:
Lots of new snow!
Trail*s have been groomed on:
Amazon 3/2/2007
Beaver Creek 3/2/2007
Franklin Basin 3/2/2007
Garden City 3/1/2007 Most the way down
Tony Grove 3/2/2007
Sinks Trail 3/2/2007
Swan Flat 3/2/2007

Wasatch Mountain:
Grooming has been done on the following dates and locations:
Wednesday, February 28 - Snake Creek
Wednesday, February 28 - American Fork Canyon from Pole Line Pass to the narrows Tuesday, February 27 - Cummings Parkway to Cascade Springs Pine Canyon was last groomed last week Cascade Springs Road has not been groomed due to lack of snow

Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow:
Upper elevations have received two to four feet of new snow in the last week or so and the riding conditions are great, however avalanche danger is high so be careful.
March 2 * 3 Nobletts

Bear River Service to Whitney:
Upwards of two feet of snow have fallen in the higher elevations since the early part of the week. Riders using highway 150 are reminded of the posted speed limit signs and the need to stay on the west side of the highway until the Christmas Meadows junction, it is prohibited to ride on the plowed highway.

Uintah Basin:
There has been no grooming done in the last week for the Uintah Basin.
This was due to a lack of snow. With the recent snowfall in the area the grooming operation will resume next week.

Scofield / Joe*s Valley / Skyline Drive:
Grooming occurred February 28 at the following locations:
North Skyline has 18-24* of snow at the trailhead at Fairview top Fish Creek Ridge has 18-24* of snow Tucker/Starvation/Pondtown has 8-12* of snow at the trailheads and 16*of snow on top.
Be advised that Pondtown has some marked dangerous hazards about three miles up from the trailhead. Parts of the Starvation/tucker trails have not been groomed yet due to lack of snow.
Miller*s Flat has 18-24* of snow and was last groomed February 22.
Grooming is scheduled groomed again early March.
Joe*s Valley has 10-12*of snow at the lower trailhead and 18-24* on top of Middle Mt.

Mt Nebo:
Entire trail was groomed March 1. It has been very windy and there are many drifts.

Ephraim / Manti / 12 mile:
Groomed March 2. A lot of drifting and loading on the side hills, so avalanche danger is very high. Please use extreme caution.

Fish Lake:
Monroe and Fishlake mountains were groomed last week, Beaver was not due to lack of snow.

Cedar Mountain / East Fork:
As of March 1, we*ve received about 18* of new snow on the mountain. Grooming conditions are much better.
March 2 Midway, Sage Valley and the Duck Creek run (also know as the Lava Flow run) March 1 Midway, Sage valley and Duck Creek Ridge February 28 Midway, Cedar Breaks, Brian Head and through to Sage Valley West boundary

Strawberry:
Lots of new snow! Avalanche conditions are very high, so be careful and don*t take any unnecessary risks.

San Juan County Artists Featured at Edge of the Cedars

Blanding - Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum announces the opening of four new temporary exhibits for spring 2007 representing the efforts of San Juan County artists: Kelly Pugh and Ambrose Mexican; Leo Platero from Montezuma Creek; and Gregory Holiday from Oljeto.

Expressions of the West * Through June 30 Kelly Pugh historical imagery portrays many local leaders and families of the past two centuries and events leading to the settlement of southeast Utah. Pugh*s twin sister, photographer Kammy Palmer, is also represented in this exhibit with two award-winning wildlife images.

Yellowhorse * Through May 15
Ambrose Mexican is a self-taught carver, artist, and illustrator creating finely detailed pencil and ink drawings of wildlife, portraits, and horses. Mexican*s eye for fine detail also shines through in the photo-like imagery of his exceptional scrimshaw carvings.





Through the Eyes of a Sheepherder * Through May 15 Leo Platero*s paintings are a record of his sheepherder*s observations of light, color, clouds, and land formations. Platero is a versatile and prolific artist, working in many media. This exhibit also includes pottery and writings.

Colors From the Earth *Through May 15
Inspired by the designs he observed on the pottery shards while working with archeologists, Paiute-Navajo potter Gregory Holiday set out to replicate the pottery vessels just as the Pueblo ancestors had made them. Holiday regularly traverses the Four Corners to find different types and colors of clays as well as material for temper, slip, and pigments with which to fashion his pottery.

The Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum is dedicated to education about and the celebration of the Native cultures of the Four Corners region. Come help us celebrate the 50th birthday of Utah State Parks!
Check our website for special activities throughout 2007. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Please call (435) 678-2238 for information about these exhibits and other exciting events and activities.

Warm Winter Forces Early Closure at Hardware Ranch

Feb. 12 closure one of the earliest on record

Hyrum -- The Hardware Ranch Wildlife Management Area hosted a near-record number of visitors in December.

Now, just six weeks, warm weather has forced the staff at the ranch to close its winter elk-viewing season early.

The winter elk-viewing season at the ranch east of Hyrum closed Feb. 12. That's more than a month earlier than normal.

"We've had a strange winter," says Dan Christensen, the WMA's superintendent. "Last week, after five days with afternoon temperatures near 50 degrees and bare ground, the elk on the meadow headed back to the high country."

Christensen says this is one of the earliest closings on record at Hardware Ranch, where the winter season usually runs until mid-March. During a typical three-month winter season, as many as 50,000 visitors come to the ranch to ride in horse-drawn sleighs among several hundred elk that are fed in a large meadow area.

"Like many of the ski areas and other winter operations in Utah, the really poor snow conditions, coupled with frigid temperatures, hurt us in January," Christensen says. "After that, we just never got most of the storms that dropped snow along the Wasatch Front."

The other problem at the ranch is thick, sticky mountain mud. The spring melt caused by higher than normal temperatures, coupled with a few days of rain, have made it impossible to pull wagons full of passengers through the meadow. When the ranch's staff did take passengers through the meadow recently, the weight of the wagons cut deep ruts in the ground and the mud bound clumps of hay to the wagons' wheels.

"People are asking if we'll reopen this season," Christensen says. "Without snow and subzero temperatures, there's really no reason for the elk to come back or stay here. And without the elk, there's not enough up here for people to see this time of the year."

Spring, Summer and Fall

When asked what will happen next at the ranch, Christensen rattled off a list of chores.

"We would rather be doing the rides, but with the ambitious schedule of education programs and habitat improvement initiatives at Hardware Ranch, we'll just change direction and start working on these other items a little sooner," he says.

"We have education programs scheduled through the end of February, and in March we start the first full season of an exciting new education partnership with the Bear River Bird Refuge in Brigham City."

Other chores on the list include getting ready to turn nearly 1,000 cattle onto Hardware Ranch in April as part of a range improvement study; completing a water development project funded by the Mule Deer Foundation; building nearly 10 miles of fence along the ranch's boundaries; hosting summer handcart treks; changing and adding displays in the ranch's visitor center, using money provided by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation; and completing a year-long maintenance program designed to bolster the ranch's aging facilities.

"We may be closed to the general public for a while, but we do a lot of things up here with various groups throughout the year," Christensen says.

For more information, call the Hardware Ranch WMA at (435) 753-6206 or visit the ranch's Web site at www.hardwareranch.com

UTAH STATE PARKS SNOWMOBILE GROOMING REPORT - FEBRUARY 12

Hardware Ranch:
February 8: South from SR 89 in Logan Canyon to top of Rock Creek where mud begins, approximately three miles north of Ranch. Returned to Logan Canyon Road Shed via Strawberry Valley. Snow was heavy and wet, not good conditions. No grooming until new snow falls.

Monte Cristo:
February 12: 42" of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 52" at Monte Cristo Grooming completed:
February 11: Arb's Basin and Wasatch Ridge February 10: Wasatch Ridge and Arb's Basin February 8: Red Spur February 7: Wasatch Ridge, Arb's Basin February 5: SR39

Bear Lake / Logan Canyon:
February 8: From Sinks to as close to Hardware Ranch as possible before lack of snow.
Grooming Completed:
February 9: Swan Flat
February 8: Sinks Trail
February 5: Amazon, Beaver Creek, Franklin Basin, Garden City, Tony Grove

Wasatch Mountain:
Regular grooming runs made Monday through Wednesday, other grooming canceled until new snow falls. Snake Creek remains open, but is extremely slushy and melting quickly at trailhead. Asphalt showing at Pine Canyon and Pine Hollow in American Fork Canyon.

Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow:
Snow conditions are poor. Groomed trails have snow, but it's melting quickly. Wolf Creek Highway toward Nobletts Trailhead has areas of asphalt.
Sno-cat will be moved from North Fork to Soapstone Trailhead due to lack of snow. February 10 grooming run canceled.

Bear River Service to Whitney:
Overnight temperatures are just barely cold enough to groom.

Uintah Basin:
No new report.

Scofield / Joe's Valley / Skyline Drive:
No significant snowfall in the last two weeks. Both Skyline Drive and Miller's Flat have seen little use. Grooming operations suspended until more snow falls.

Mt Nebo:
No new report.

Ephraim / Manti /12-mile:
No new report.

Fish Lake:
No new report.

Cedar Mountain / East Fork:
Grooming suspended, no new snow.

Strawberry:
No new report.

UTAH STATE PARKS RESERVOIR AND LAKE REPORT - FEBRUARY 12

Ice is melting at many lakes and reservoirs, please use extreme caution.

Bear Lake State Park Marina: Frozen, ice 8"
Deer Creek State Park: Frozen
East Canyon State Park: Frozen - but melting, ice 10-12"
Wide Hollow at Escalante State Park: Frozen
Great Salt Lake State Park Marina: Launch ramp open, 26 degrees
Gunlock State Park: Launch ramp open, 48 degrees
Huntington State Park: Frozen, ice 6-10"
Hyrum Lake State Park: Frozen, ice 9"
Jordanelle State Park: Mostly frozen, melting
Millsite State Park: Frozen, ice 6-10"
Otter Creek State Park: Frozen, ice 8-10"
Palisade State Park: Frozen, ice 6"
Piute State Park: Frozen
Quail Creek State Park: Launch ramp open, 36 degrees
Red Fleet State Park: Frozen, ice 16"
Rockport State Park: Frozen, ice 8-12"
Sand Hollow State Park: Launch ramp open, 37 degrees
Scofield State Park: Frozen, ice 12"
Starvation State Park: Frozen, ice 6"
Steinaker State Park: Frozen, ice 16"
Utah Lake State Park: Frozen
Willard Bay State Park: Some ice
Yuba State Park: Frozen, ice 6-8"
Strawberry: Frozen, ice 12-15"
Flaming Gorge: Mostly frozen, ice 0-18"

State parks offer day-use access and camping. Some facilities remain winterized. For more information, please call 1-800-322-3770.

CROSS-COUNTRY TRAILS CLOSE AT WASATCH MOUNTAIN, PREP FOR EARLY SEASON GOLF

Midway - Due to lack of snow and warm temperatures, cross-country ski trails at Wasatch Mountain State Park are closed for the season. Ski areas at Soldier Hollow and along Mirror Lake Highway remain open.

Because of the mild winter, park managers are hoping for an early spring opening at Wasatch Mountain and Soldier Hollow golf courses. Wasatch Mountain State Park hosts many events throughout the year, including naturalist programs and Junior Ranger activities. For more information, please call (435) 654-1791.

FOURTH OF JULY IN UTAH'S STATE PARKS

Salt Lake City - Utah State Parks and Recreation is preparing for a busy summer season. In fact, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Green River, Escalante, and Goblin Valley are already booked for Memorial Day Weekend.

Because state park reservation policy allows campers to reserve individual campsites up to 18 weeks prior to their date of departure from the park, reservation agents begin accepting reservations for the Fourth of July Weekend Thursday, March 15.

For reservations, call 1-800-322-3770 from outside the Salt Lake area or (801) 322-3770 from within Salt Lake.

"Savvy campers are booking early and reserving their perfect campsite," commented Emily Debois, reservation manager. "Due to the popularity of state park facilities, reservations are always recommended."

The Utah State Parks Reservation Center can also book group sites, pavilions, and boat slips. Agents may also recommend locations for golf tournaments, corporate outings, and family reunions.

Individual campsite reservations must be made at least two days in advance of arrival date. An $8 non-refundable reservation fee is charged for each site reserved. Group site reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance. A $10.25 non-refundable fee, along with a per/person fee, is charged for group sites and building rentals.

For more Utah State Park information, please visit www.stateparks.utah.gov

UTAH STATE PARKS LAUNCH AND ICE REPORT FEBRUARY 6, 2007

Bear Lake State Park Marina: Closed 35 degrees, 6 inches of ice
Deer Creek State Park: Closed 32 degrees, frozen
East Canyon State Park: Closed 30 degrees, 12-18 inches of ice
Wide Hollow at Escalante State Park: Closed 32 degrees, frozen
Great Salt Lake State Park Marina: OPEN 26 degrees
Gunlock State Park: OPEN 48 degrees
Huntington State Park: Closed 30 degrees, 6-10 inches of ice
Hyrum Lake State Park: Closed 39 degrees, 9 inches of ice on west half of lake Jordanelle State Park: Closed 33 degrees, mostly ice
Millsite State Park: Closed 30 degrees, 6-10 inches of ice
Otter Creek State Park: Closed 30 degrees, 8-10 inches of ice
Palisade State Park: Closed 35 degrees, 4 inches of ice
Piute State Park: Closed 30 degrees, frozen
Quail Creek State Park: OPEN 36 degrees
Red Fleet State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 13 inches of ice
Rockport State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 5-8 inches of ice
Sand Hollow State Park: OPEN 36 degrees
Scofield State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 12 inches of ice
Starvation State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 6 inches of ice
Steinaker State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 13 inches of ice
Utah Lake State Park: Closed 32 degrees, frozen
Willard Bay State Park: Closed 32 degrees, some ice
Yuba State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 5-8 inches of ice
Strawberry: OPEN 32 degrees, 20 inches of ice
Flaming Gorge: OPEN 32 degrees, 8 inches of ice

Stars and Snow in Utah's State Parks

Salt Lake City * Enjoy stars, snow, and snowshoes at Wasatch, Snow Canyon, and Jordanelle state parks. These events are geared for the entire family.

Visit Wasatch Mountain State Park Friday, February 16 for the Stars and Snow program. Bundle up and join park staff in the visitor center at 7 p.m. for an evening learning about the winter night sky. This program includes an indoor discussion, followed by outdoor constellation observation. Registration is required by calling (435) 654-1791.

Enjoy cocoa and constellations at Snow Canyon State Park Friday, February 16 or Saturday, February 17. Have a cup of steaming cocoa as local astronomer Ray Cyr teaches basic winter constellations from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Join the Jordanelle State Park naturalist Saturday, February 17 for Track Me If You Can! From 10 a.m. to noon, learn basic tracking skills necessary to understanding local wildlife. Bring snowshoes or borrow a pair from the park. The day-use fee is $7 per vehicle with up to eight people or free to Utah State Park pass holders. Pre-registration is required. For more information, please call (435) 782-3030 or (435) 649-9540

Utah State Parks Snowmobile Grooming Report

Hardware Ranch:

Friday, January 26: North from Ranch into Strawberry Valley and up to Hell's Hollow. From there through to Sinks and made four passes. Conditions at the Sinks are good. Back down through Strawberry and north to Elk Valley Guard Station. Back south through Strawberry to the Ranch. Trail leaving the Ranch has patches of mud for about six miles, but is decent after that. More snow needed.

Monte Cristo:
As of January 24, 2007 there is 32" of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 43" at Monte Cristo.

Grooming completed:
Monday, January 22 * Ant Flat to Sheep Creek, Curtis Creek to Baxter Saw Mill, SR39 to Woodruff Gate and Wasatch Ridge Saturday, January 20 * SR 39 to Little Monte Friday, January 19 * SR 39 to Little Monte Thursday, January 18 * Ant Flat to Scare Canyon, SR-39 to Woodruff Gate Wednesday, January 17 * Arb's Basin, Wasatch Ridge, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek


Bear Lake / Logan Canyon:
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Groomer is down, no grooming last weekend.
Grooming completed:
Amazon - January 24
Beaver Creek - January 24
Franklin Basin * January 22
Garden City
Tony Grove January 22
Sinks Trail January 21
Swan Flat January 25


Wasatch Mountain:
Grooming completed:
January 26 - Snake Creek Canyon to the top of the narrows at Graveyard Flat.
January 24 - Cummings Parkway
January 22 - Alpine Loop to Sundance and Pine Hollow January 22 * Soldier Hollow Snow conditions at Tibble Fork, Pine Hollow, and Soldier Hollow are minimal. Tibble Fork and Silver Lake have not been groomed yet this year due to lack of snow.


Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow:
Snow conditions are poor with no new snow for quite a while. Snow depths range from three feet at high elevations on north facing slopes and no snow at lower elevations and on south facing slopes. Grooming as per schedule and the trails are in great shape. Use caution. No grooming all the way down to Lakecreek due to low snow conditions. If finding a vehicle stuck on the trail, please write down a license plate and call 911. They will then notify us so we can make plans to have it removed. Remember, it is illegal to operate a wheeled vehicle in excess of 800 pounds on a groomed snowmobile trail.

Bear River Service to Whitney:
The last snowstorm dropped anywhere from 6-10" depending on elevation. Despite the dry month of January, riding conditions have remained reasonably good. All trails have been groomed and cold temperatures have helped set a good base. On February 2, the International Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race will begin at the North Slope parking lot at 10 am. The race starts at the North Slope gate and ends at Deadhorse Trailhead. The north end of the trailhead will be reserved for the mushers, but plenty of parking is available to the south.

Uintah Basin:
January 18 * Entire Red Cloud Loop Complex, Dry Fork up to Leidy turnaround and out to the yurt at Summit Park, East Park to Hwy 191, other side of the Red Cloud Loop, and Taylor Mountain.
January 19 - Don Hatch Trail to Flaming Gorge Lodge, to Red Canyon Lodge and then to Deep Creek. Snow conditions are good, and better at higher elevations.

Scofield / Joe's Valley / Skyline Drive:
As of Jan 19, current snow conditions and grooming reports are as follows:
Waiting for more snow. The last storm only added two more inches of snow to most places. Depths are 55% of normal snow pack and grooming is suspended until enough snow is available.

North Skyline has 16" of snow at the trailhead at Fairview top, but snow levels are not sufficient enough to groom this trail in its entirety.
Fish Creek Ridge has 15" of snow on top of the junction, but snow levels are not sufficient enough to groom this trail in its entirety.
Tucker/Starvation/Pondtown has 6-8" of snow at the trailheads, and have not been groomed. Miller's Flat has 12" of snow, not groomed yet. Joe's Valley has 8-10" of snow at the lower trailhead and 15" of snow at Middle Mt. The trail is not groomed.

Mt Nebo:
Grooming was started from the Payson side and was completed as far as Devils Kitchen. There is only 3 to 4 inches of new snow from the last storm. The trail is in good shape, but there are a few more places that are starting to show pavement.

Ephraim / Manti / 12 mile:
Grooming Completed:
January 26 - Ephraim and 12-Mile canyons Riders should use extreme caution when leaving the trail as delineator post and trail markers are not covered by snow. Without a new storm 12-Mile canyon will likely not be grooming next Friday. Ephraim Canyon is also questionable due to lack of snow.

Fish Lake:
Monroe and Fishlake mountains were groomed last week. Beaver was not groomed due to lack of snow.

Cedar Mountain / East Fork:
January 27 * Plan to groom Midway, Cedar Breaks and Brian Head. Use caution.
As a reminder, 1.3 miles of snowmobile trail just west of Sage Valley has been plowed. The Dixie National Forest has authorized this to allow loggers in and out. Be aware of logging machinery in this area.

Strawberry:
As of January 20, there is no new snow. Please be aware of others on the trail and trail hazards, as snow levels are low.

Utah State Parks Launch and Ice Report

UTAH STATE PARKS LAUNCH AND ICE REPORT * JANUARY 30

Bear Lake State Park Marina: Closed 35 degrees, 6 inches of ice
Deer Creek State Park: Closed 32 degrees, frozen
East Canyon State Park: Closed 30 degrees, 12-18 inches of ice
Wide Hollow at Escalante State Park: Closed 32 degrees, frozen
Great Salt Lake State Park Marina: OPEN 26 degrees
Gunlock State Park: OPEN 48 degrees
Huntington State Park: Closed 30 degrees, 6-10 inches of ice
Hyrum Lake State Park: Closed 39 degrees, 4 inches of ice on west half of lake Jordanelle State Park: Closed 33 degrees, mostly ice
Millsite State Park: Closed 30 degrees, 6-10 inches of ice
Otter Creek State Park: Closed 30 degrees, 8-10 inches of ice
Palisade State Park: Closed 35 degrees, 4 inches of ice
Piute State Park: Closed 30 degrees, frozen
Quail Creek State Park: OPEN 36 degrees
Red Fleet State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 13 inches of ice
Rockport State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 5-8 inches of ice
Sand Hollow State Park: OPEN 36 degrees
Scofield State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 12 inches of ice
Starvation State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 6 inches of ice
Steinaker State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 13 inches of ice
Utah Lake State Park: Closed 32 degrees, frozen
Willard Bay State Park: Closed 32 degrees, some ice
Yuba State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 5-8 inches of ice
Strawberry: OPEN 32 degrees, 20 inches of ice
Flaming Gorge: OPEN 32 degrees, 8 inches of ice

Utah State Parks Hikes - From Snow to Lava

Salt Lake City * Three Utah state parks offer great hikes this weekend from a full moon snowshoe hike to a lava tubes tour.

Join Friends of Wasatch for a Full Moon Snowshoe Hike Friday, February 2. This annual snowshoe trek is lit by a full moon and open to hikers of all abilities. Entrance fee is waived for Friends of Wasatch members and $5 for non-members, with snowshoe rentals also available for $5/pair. Registration is required * please call (435) 654-1791.

On Saturday, visit Rock Cliff Nature Center at Jordanelle State Park for Track Me If You Can! From 10 a.m. to noon, join the park naturalist and learn basic tracking skills necessary to understanding local wildlife. Bring snowshoes or borrow a pair from the park. Day-use fee is $7 per vehicle with up to eight people or free to Utah State Park pass holders. Pre-registration is required * please call (435) 782-3030 or (435) 649-9540

From snow to lava! Take the Lava Tubes Tour at Snow Canyon State Park Saturday, February 3 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This two-mile, round-trip hike is a unique opportunity to explore lava tube formations. Registration required * please call (435) 628-2255.

Family Ice Fishing Festival And Bald Eagle Day Slated For February 10.

Volunteers from the Wasatch Audubon Chapter will be at Salt Creek Waterfowl Management Area on Saturday February 10 to help families enjoy and celebrate the presence of bald eagles in Utah.

Anglers at Lost Creek Reservoir are treated to seeing good numbers of bald eagles and turkeys along Lost Creek.

Saturday February 10 could be a wild day for families in Box Elder County!

The Brigham City Recreation department is hosting a “Family Fishing Fest” on the ice at Mantua Reservoir. The free event will run from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Parking is limited, however, so only a limited number of people can attend. The Brigham City Recreation has asked for interested persons to pre-register by calling their office at 435-734-6610 or email them at klaw@brighamcity.utah.gov.

Fun, Games and Fishing

Kristy Law from the Brigham City Parks and recreation Department says the event will offer a long and exciting list of activities. “If learning how to rig a fishing line, fillet or cook a fish are on your ‘need-to-know’ list, we can help,” said Law.

These “need-to-know” clinics will focus on ice safety and fishing techniques and will be held every hour.

Reese Stein and Adam Eakle, hosts of “Roughing It Outdoors” show on KUTV Channel 2 will also be on hand. “Mark your calendar for this exciting event. You can stay for an hour or stay all day. Get registered and come up. It’s going to be a lot of fun” Law added.

In addition to learning more about ice fishing, the event is going to offer an interesting variety of fun family activities that will be held on the ice. Ice bowling and four-person ice drilling relays are just some of the activities that families can participate in. The Family Ice Fishing Festival is hosted by the Brigham City Recreation Department, the Utah Division of Wildlife and Sportsman’s Warehouse.

Bald Eagle Diversion

To make it truly a wild day, take a detour and stop by Salt Creek Wildlife Management Area to see wintering bald eagles and other wintering wildlife. Salt Creek WMA is a hidden gem for wildlife viewing. For more details on eagle day events, visit the DWR website at wildlife.utah.gov.

Starlight Snowshoe Hike - JORDANELLE STATE PARK

Heber City-Join park staff on February 9th for a starlight snowshoe hike along the lake. Meet at the Visitors Center at Jordanelle State Park at 7:00 pm for the hike and refreshments. Jordanelle can provide snowshoes. After the hike we will enjoy a short presentation on stars followed by an opportunity to use telescopes.

Admission is $5.00/ person. Space is limited to 50 people so you must RSVP. Call (435) 649-9540 to reserve your spot today.

UTAH STATE PARKS LAUNCH AND WATER CONDITIONS

Bear Lake State Park Marina: OPEN - 35 degrees, 3 inches of ice
Deer Creek State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, frozen over
East Canyon State Park: Closed - 30 degrees, 8 -12 inches of ice
Wide Hollow at Escalante State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, frozen over
Great Salt Lake State Park Marina: OPEN - 26 degrees
Gunlock State Park: OPEN - 48 degrees
Huntington State Park: Closed -- 30 degrees, 3 - 5 inches of ice
Hyrum Lake State Park: Closed -- 39 degrees, 4 inches of ice on west half of lake
Jordanelle State Park: Closed -- 33 degrees, some ice
Millsite State Park: Closed - 30 degrees, 4 - 6 inches of ice
Otter Creek State Park: Closed - 30 degrees, 8 -10 inches of ice
Palisade State Park: Closed - 35 degrees, 4 inches of ice
Piute State Park: Closed -- 30 degrees, frozen over
Quail Creek State Park: OPEN - 40 degrees
Red Fleet State Park: Closed - 34 degrees, 4 - 6 inches of ice
Rockport State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, 5 - 8 inches of ice
Sand Hollow State Park: OPEN - 37 degrees
Scofield State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, 12 + inches of ice
Starvation State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, 3 inches of ice
Steinaker State Park: Closed - 34 degrees, 3 - 5 inches of ice
Utah Lake State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, frozen
Willard Bay State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, some ice
Yuba State Park: Closed - 32 degrees, 3 - 8 inches of ice
Strawberry: Closed - 32 degrees, 20 inches of ice
Flaming Gorge: Closed - 32 degrees, 8 inches of ice

UPCOMING UTAH STATE PARKS EVENTS

January 27 Snow Canyon State Park - Ivins
Winter Birding Hike: Join park staff from 10 a.m. to noon for the St. George Winter Bird Festival. Go birding among lava flows and towering sandstone cliffs as we search out red-naped sapsuckers, crissal thrashers, and other wintering residents on a three-mile round-trip hike. Binoculars recommended. Space is limited and registration is required. For more information, please call (435) 628-2255.

January 27 Wasatch Mountain State Park - Midway
Basic Snow Cave Class. Join park staff at 10 a.m. to learn the basics of building a snow cave. Knowing how to build a snow cave is not only fun, but also can be vital in any winter survival situation. Come dressed in layers with a waterproof shell. Meet at the Educational Yurt. For more information call (435) 654-1791.

February 1 - March 31 Wasatch Mountain State Park - Midway
Guided Snowshoe Hikes. A naturalist is available Wednesday - Saturday for guided snowshoe hikes within the park. For more information, or to schedule a hike, please call (435) 654-1791.

February 1 Antelope Island State Park - Syracuse
Art Gallery: Antelope Island State Park staff and volunteers display their artwork and photographs in the visitor center art gallery. For more information, please call (801) 725-9263.

February 2 Wasatch Mountain State Park - Midway
Friends of Wasatch Full Moon Snowshoe Hike: Join park staff for the annual snowshoe hike under the light of the full moon. Hikes for beginners, intermediate and advanced levels are available. Members of Friends are free. $5 for non-members. Snowshoe rentals are available for $5/pair. Registration is required by calling (435) 654-1791.

February 3 Rock Cliff Nature Center/Jordanelle State Park - Francis
Track Me If You Can! Join the park naturalist from 10 a.m. to noon and learn basic tracking skills necessary to understanding local wildlife. Bring snowshoes or borrow a pair from the park. Pre-registration is required. Day-use fee is $7 per vehicle with up to eight people or free to Utah State Park pass holders. For more information call (435) 782-3030 or (435) 649-9540.

February 3 Snow Canyon State Park - Ivins
Lava Tubes Tour: Join park staff from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., for a two-mile round-trip hike and the chance to explore the unique formations of a lava tube. Registration required. For more information, please call (435) 628-2255.

Utah State Parks Board Meets in Salt Lake

UTAH STATE PARKS BOARD MEETS IN SALT LAKE Salt Lake City-- The Board of Utah State Parks and Recreation meets Monday, February 5. The public is welcome to attend a public meeting at 9 a.m., at the Department of Natural Resources building located at 1594 West North Temple.

Topics to be discussed include boating rule amendments, This Is The Place Heritage Park update, Trails Advisory Council member approval, Dead Horse Point Resource Management Plan (RMP) approval, and Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Approval.

UTAH STATE PARKS SNOWMOBILE GROOMING REPORT - JANUARY 16

Current information is also available at www.snowut.com.

Hardware Ranch:
January 15 - Hardware Ranch north to Johnson's Ranch/Strawberry Valley and onto the Elk Valley Guard Station. From there, north on the cross-country pole line back to Strawberry Valley and up to the Sinks turnaround. Returned through Strawberry /Johnson's and back to Hardware Ranch. The trails are still rough coming out of the Ranch, particularly Rock Creek. However, snow is good and gets better from Johnson's and is great in Sinks area.

Monte Cristo:
As of January 16, 2007 there is 34" of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 43" at Monte Cristo.
January 15 - Wasatch Ridge, Woodruff Gate, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek January 14 - Red Spur January 13 - Arb's Basin, Wasatch Ridge, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek January 12 - Arb's Basin, Ant Flat to Sheep Creek January 11 - Arb's Basin, Wasatch Ridge, Ant Flat to Scare Canyon January 10 - Wasatch Ridge, SR-39 to Woodruff Gate

Bear Lake / Logan Canyon:
Regular grooming schedule now underway. Good snow at higher elevations, but still hitting rocks at lower elevations.
January 10 - Amazon, Beaver Creek, Franklin Basin, Tony Grove January 7 - Sinks Trail, Swan Flat

Wasatch Mountain:
January 12 - Snake Creek, Cummings Parkway to Cascade Springs, American Fork Canyon to the top of the narrows. Storm on January 11 and 12 dropped only four inches at Mill Flat Trailhead. Pine Hollow, Cascade Springs, and Tibble Fork have not been groomed due to lack of snow.

Mirror Lake / Mill Hollow:
January 12 - Six to 12 inches have fallen. Grooming is on schedule and trails should be in great shape.

Bear River Service to Whitney:
January 11 - Three to four inches of new snow at the north slope parking lot and more is forecasted. All trails have been groomed. Riding conditions continue to improve and new snow should help.

Uintah Basin:
January 13 - Spirit Lake
January 12 - East McKee to Cart Creek to Red Cayon Lodge, then to Deep Creek parking area January 11 - Red Cloud Loop from Hwy191 turnoff to the Leidy turnaround, Dry Fork Trailhead to Trout Creek

Scofield / Joe's Valley / Skyline Drive:
January 5 - Still waiting for more snow. Some grooming completed on Skyline, but more snow needed. North Skyline has 18" of snow at the trailhead at Fairview top. Fish Creek Ridge has 15" of snow on top of the junction. Tucker/Starvation/Pondtown has 6-8" of snow at the trailheads and 18"of snow on top, and have not been groomed yet. Miller's Flat has 16" of snow. The trail has not been groomed yet. Snow levels are not sufficient enough to groom this trail in its entirety.

Mt Nebo:
January 10 - Grooming completed. Trail is still in need of more fresh snow.

Ephraim / Manti / 12 mile:
Ephraim and Twelve-Mile canyons, 12 - 18 inches of new powder on top of about 20 inches of old snow at the top of the trails. Ephraim Canyon has delineator posts and guard rails lining most of the main road. Riders should use extreme caution when leaving the main road. There is a logging permit issued for Manti Canyon and the permittee is plowing the road up nearly to Milky Falls, which prevents grooming until snow depths shut down the operation.

Fish Lake:
All three mountains have been groomed. Each mountain has good snow with each having some new powder. More grooming this week.


Cedar Mountain / East Fork:
January 14 - Midway, Sage Valley, and Navajo January 13 - Midway, Cedar Breaks, and Brain Head As a reminder, Dixie National Forest authorized loggers to plow Red Canyon Road for tree removal. Approximately 1.3 miles of the normal groomed trail have been plowed and could be difficult to ride.

Strawberry:
January 7 - Two inches of new snow at the DOT Shed off Hwy 40, and five inches of new snow making a total of two feet at Lake Creek Summit.
Conditions are snow blown and crusty with drifts in several areas. Please be careful off trail, due to the high wind snowdrifts. Please be advised: January 6 Co-op Creek to Lake Creek Summit back down to Strawberry River was CANCELLED due to high winds and white out conditions.

UTAH STATE PARKS WATER / ICE CONDITIONS

Please find below, Utah State Parks current conditions as of January 16, 2007:

Bear Lake State Park Marina: OPEN 35 degrees
Deer Creek State Park: Closed 32 degrees, mostly frozen
East Canyon State Park: Closed 30 degrees, 6 -10 inches of ice
Wide Hollow at Escalante State Park: Closed 32 degrees, frozen
Great Salt Lake State Park Marina: OPEN 46 degrees
Gunlock State Park: OPEN 48 degrees
Huntington State Park: Closed 30 degrees, 3 - 5 inches of ice
Hyrum Lake State Park: Closed 39 degrees, 4 inches of ice on west half of lake Jordanelle State Park: OPEN 33 degrees, some ice
Millsite State Park: Closed 30 degrees, 4 -6 inches of ice
Otter Creek State Park: Closed 30 degrees, 8 - 10 inches of ice
Palisade State Park: Closed 35 degrees, 4 inches of ice
Piute State Park: Closed 30 degrees, frozen
Quail Creek State Park: OPEN 40 degrees
Red Fleet State Park: Closed 35 degrees, 4 - 6 inches of ice
Rockport State Park: Closed 35 degrees, 5 -8 inches of ice
Sand Hollow State Park: OPEN 37 degrees
Scofield State Park: Closed 32 degrees, frozen
Starvation State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 3 inches of ice
Steinaker State Park: Closed 35 degrees, 3 - 5 inches of ice
Utah Lake State Park: Closed 32 degrees, frozen
Willard Bay State Park: Closed 32 degrees, some ice
Yuba State Park: Closed 32 degrees, 3 - 8 inches of ice
Strawberry: OPEN 32 degrees
Flaming Gorge: OPEN 32 degrees

Snow Cave Class at Wasatch Mountain

Midway - Wasatch Mountain State Park hosts a Snow Cave Class at 10 a.m. Saturday, January 27. Learn the basics of building a snow cave, which is not only fun, but also vital in any winter survival situation. Participants should dress in layers with a waterproof shell, and meet at the Wasatch Mountain Educational Yurt. For more information or to register, please call (435) 654-1791.

Snowmobile Safety

Helmets, Safety, and Education are Topics of Snowmobile Safety Week


Wasatch Mountain State Park - Courtesy Utah State Parks

HELMETS, SAFETY, AND EDUCATION ARE TOPICS OF SNOWMOBILE SAFETY WEEK

Salt Lake -- Utah snowmobilers are anxiously awaiting new snow, but will are observing National Snowmobile Safety Week January 13 through 20, 2007. For this eight-day observance, and throughout Utah's snowmobile season, Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Education Specialist Ann Evans is stressing helmets, safety, and education.

"We want everyone to ride safely and know the laws and rules before they go. Be educated and be prepared," said Evans. She encourages riders to check avalanche, trail and weather conditions, and share itineraries with family and friends.

Utah law requires children ages eight to 15 to complete the Utah State Parks and Recreation Know Before You Go! OHV education course before operating on public lands, roads or trails. Those 16 or older must have a valid Utah driver's license or a safety certificate to operate snowmobiles on public land. It is illegal for any child under age eight to operate an OHV on public land.

All youth under age 18 are required by law to wear helmets that are approved by the Department of Transportation while riding. Utah Department of Health (UDOH) and Utah State Parks strongly recommend that all riders wear helmets, especially parents who set the example for children and other riders.

In addition to helmets and education, Evans offers the following safety tips:

- Never ride alone. Always ride with a companion and let others know your plan.

- Watch your fuel supply carefully.

- Check the weather report and check avalanche advisories.

- Dress for changing weather conditions. Wear layered clothing to adjust for changing conditions.

- Never drink and drive.

- Always wear an approved helmet designed for motorized use. It's the law for anyone under 18 to wear their helmet at all times. Utah State Parks encourages everyone to wear a helmet.

- Know basic maintenance procedures. Carry spark plugs, drive belts, tool kit and a survival kit, which contains a map, compass, flashlight, extra food, extra clothing, sunglasses, first aid kit, pocket knife, waterproof matches, and candles or fire starters.

For registration materials, grooming reports, and avalanche conditions, call the OHV Information Center at 1-800-OHV-RIDE or 1-800-648-7433 from outside the Salt Lake area or 538-RIDE / 538-7433.

Uinta Basin Energy Boom Prompts Creative Housing

Salt Lake City, Utah -- The energy boom in the Uinta Basin is making hotel rooms a scarce and pricey commodity as oil and gas workers fill those vacancies. That situation is prompting some creative thinking on the part of the Utah Division of Water Rights, which needs to find housing in Vernal for seven employees next summer. They will evaluate and determine the extent of use of water for 1,500 water rights in the area.

Teresa Wilhelmsen, a Water Rights engineer, says they have never faced a similar situation before. "Usually, rooms are available and reasonably priced at government rates. But we need as many as seven rooms for up to six months during the field season. Not only are the rooms unavailable, the market is making them cost-prohibitive."

Wilhelmsen is currently reviewing the feasibility of purchasing used trailers for the employees. "While the initial investment for purchasing the trailers may be more than the price of the hotel rooms, the trailers will be sold after completion of the project. We should be able to recoup most of the initial cost."

Through a potential cooperative agreement with the Utah State Division of Parks and Recreation, the trailers will be set up at Steinaker State Park, which is about seven miles from Vernal. "This is a mutually-beneficial arrangement," said Wilhelmsen. "State Parks will provide the campsites and Water Rights will provide permanent improvements including sewer, water and power to the campsites. This will improve facilities at the park to meet the needs of future park visitors."

The project may extend into Spring 2008.

Utah State Parks Snowmobile Grooming Report

MONTE CRISTO:
As of December 26, 2006 there is 25" of snow at Dry Bread Pond and 38" at Monte Cristo. Snow is very slim at the parking lot, on Ant Flat Road, and on Highway 39.

Grooming was completed on the following dates and locations:

Sunday, December 17 - Wasatch Ridge and Arb's Basin Saturday, December 16 - Wasatch Ridge and Arb's Basin Thursday, December 14 - Red Spur Wednesday, December 13 - Highway 39 to Woodruff Gate, Wasatch Ridge Tuesday, December 12 - Arb's Basin

Upcoming grooming schedule:

Sunday - Cleanup and drift cutting on Highway 39 and Ant Flat Monday - Curtis Creek Loop Tuesday - No grooming / Machine maintenance Wednesday - Arb's Basin, Millies Spring, and Ant Flat Thursday - Curtis Creek Loop Friday - Arb's Basin and Ant Flat Saturday - Arb's Basin, Wasatch Ridge, and Ant Flat (Schedule is subject to change based on needs, snow conditions and equipment condition.)

Fees at Monte Cristo Trailhead remain at $5 per vehicle. Season passes are $50 with a $10 discount offered until December 31. Passes available at trailhead or via phone at (435) 734-9494, leave message for a return call.

MIRROR LAKE / MILL HOLLOW:

Grooming has begun though conditions are fairly poor. Warmer temperatures make it difficult to leave a nice trail. Mirror Lake Highway and Soapstone have been groomed and should be in good shape for the weekend. There is not enough snow on Highway 35 to allow grooming at Mill Hollow or Lakecreek areas.

MT. NEBO:
The trail was groomed Wednesday, December 13. There is great snow at the highest levels of the loop road, but very little down at the bottom on the Payson and the Nephi side. Snow on the south facing spots has melted a bit. Grooming is planned for Thursday, December 21 if more snow falls.

No other areas have been groomed at this time.

Utah State Parks Launch and Water Conditions

Please find below, Utah State Parks current conditions as of December 26:

Bear Lake State Park Marina - OPEN 39 degrees
Deer Creek State Park - OPEN 40 degrees
East Canyon State Park - OPEN 33 degrees
Wide Hollow at Escalante State Park - OPEN 40 degrees
Great Salt Lake State Park Marina - OPEN 46 degrees
Gunlock State Park - OPEN 48 degrees
Huntington State Park - CLOSED 30 degrees
Hyrum Lake State Park - OPEN 48 degrees
Jordanelle State Park - OPEN 35 degrees
Millsite State Park - OPEN 30 degrees
Otter Creek State Park - OPEN 32 degrees
Palisade State Park - CLOSED 35 degrees
Piute State Park - OPEN 32 degrees
Quail Creek State Park - OPEN 45 degrees
Red Fleet State Park - OPEN 40 degrees
Rockport State Park - OPEN 40 degrees
Sand Hollow State Park - OPEN 52 degrees
Scofield State Park - CLOSED 32 degrees
Starvation State Park - OPEN 35 degrees
Steinaker State Park - OPEN 40 degrees
Utah Lake State Park - OPEN 40 degrees
Willard Bay State Park - CLOSED 45 degrees
Yuba State Park - OPEN 38 degrees
Strawberry - OPEN 32 degrees
Flaming Gorge - OPEN 32 degrees