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Show educational opportunities and programs and cultural resource protection and interpretation. Recreation Sites and Opportunities on Great Salt Lake Antelope Island ( DPR) The largest island in GSL is Utah's largest state park. Reopened in July 1993, Antelope Island's annual visitation ( currently at 300,000) has grown steadily, and the island has been identified by the Utah Travel Council as one of Utah's fastest growing tourist attractions. DFFSL has signed a MOU with DPR to allow AISP to manage sovereign lands surrounding the island as a buffer zone. Antelope Island has been called the best place to see and experience GSL, given the island's sandy beaches, lofty overlooks and amenities. Antelope Island has a unique array of wildlife- abundant large mammals adjacent to concentrations of water birds of hemispheric importance. Ungulate species on Antelope Island include the third largest publicly owned bison herd in the nation, pronghorn, big horn sheep and mule deer. The island's east shore is dominated by freshwater seeps and wetlands and is connected to the mainland marshes by playas off the south end of the island. This array of wildlife, accompanied by limited access provides outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities. Antelope Island has important cultural sites, most significant of which is the Garr Ranch. The Garr Ranch contains some of the oldest anglo- constructed buildings in Utah and was the home ranch of some of Utah's largest ranching operations from 1848- 1981. The site's interpretive focus is on the length of occupation and the evolution of large- scale western ranching from pre- mechanization to mechanization. Recreational opportunities and development include, scenic drives with bicycle lanes, a back country trail system, campgrounds and picnic areas, interpretive information and programs, a swimming beach and a marina. A private concession business, food and souvenirs, a small tour boat and guided horseback rides are located on the island. Significant educational opportunities are available on Antelope Island. DPR, in partnership with Davis County, developed a 5,200 square foot visitor center overlooking the lake. Interpretive exhibits and programs focus on GSL including Antelope Island and the other surrounding resources. The Garr Ranch, scheduled to open daily in spring of 2000 will be another important interpretive venue. Opportunities for self- directed interpretation are available with nature trails, wayside exhibits and publications. An outdoor amphitheater, located at the visitor center enhances the park's ability to provide personal programs. The park provides educational talks to thousands of school children per year and the proximity to universities and significance of resources allows for a number of outside research projects. Challenging issues confront AISP. Foremost is to provide greater access while still protecting the park's resources. Park staff have identified critical habitat which is inappropriate for access and development. Managing the 130 |