Our Wetlands Commitment
The Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA) is dedicated to preserving Utah’s wetlands, especially around the Great Salt Lake.
Our wetlands policy focuses on:
Habitat Protection: Prioritizing conservation of ecosystems vital to wildlife and migratory birds.
Sustainable Development: Minimizing environmental impact by integrating eco-friendly practices and protecting water quality in project areas.
Water Management: Implementing efficient water use strategies to support wetland sustainability, especially in water-scarce areas.
Community Collaboration: Engaging with local communities and conservation groups to align projects with environmental needs.
Recent Initiatives:
The Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA) has recently implemented several initiatives to enhance wetland protection across its project areas, particularly those near the Great Salt Lake. While these areas are already zoned for development, UIPA's policies introduce additional environmental safeguards.
Adoption of a Comprehensive Wetlands Policy: In November 2023, UIPA's board approved a comprehensive Wetlands Policy aimed at mitigating impacts on Utah's wetlands. This policy mandates that any project receiving UIPA incentives or financing must adhere to strict environmental guidelines, including:
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Avoiding adverse impacts on wetlands.
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Restoring or enhancing existing wetlands.
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Establishing new wetlands or permanently preserving existing ones.
The policy also stipulates that at least 1% of the tax differential from projects within the Great Salt Lake or Utah Lake watersheds be allocated toward wetland mitigation efforts .
West Weber Project Area Initiatives: In May 2024, UIPA approved the West Weber Project Area, encompassing approximately 9,000 acres near critical waterfowl habitats. To safeguard these sensitive ecosystems, UIPA has:
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Required developers to conduct comprehensive wetland inventories.
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Mandated a 600-foot buffer between development and waterfowl management areas.
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Recommended that 3% of tax revenue from the project area be dedicated to wetland mitigation, potentially generating over $10 million for conservation over 25 years .
Investment in Shoreline Preservation: Demonstrating a commitment to proactive conservation, UIPA approved a $2.5 million grant in November 2024 to the Utah Department of Natural Resources. This funding facilitates the acquisition of land along the southeastern shore of the Great Salt Lake to create buffer zones protecting vital wetland and playa habitats.
In the News
Sustainability Spotlight: Innovative Verti-Block System Balances Development and Wetland Conservation in Tooele Valley
Wetlands Mitigation in Tooele Valley
Duck hunters helped save the Great Salt Lake wetlands 100 years ago — can they save them now?
KSL: Inland Port Authority shows efforts to preserve Great Salt Lake wetlands
