OCR Text |
Show channel. USFWS is developing plans for a visitor center to be constructed near Brigham City. This visitor center will dramatically expand interpretation opportunities of GSL's concentration of water birds. The visitor center is scheduled for completion by 2002. Currently the refuge offers educational tours by reservation. Management is working on a plan that will allow expanded fishing access, foot trails and a short canoe trip. Given USFWS's dual mandate of protecting migrating birds and providing opportunities for hunting, the refuge follows a management mandate practiced throughout the agency. That is, 60 percent of the refuge is closed, 20 percent is open throughout the year and an additional 20 percent is opened only during hunting season. Issues facing BRMBR include; safeguarding a dependable freshwater flow throughout the year, balancing hunting with birding, protection from industrial encroachment along the southern boundary and utilizing sovereign lands for refuge expansion. Great Salt Lake Marina ( DPR) The GSL Marina is the most popular launching and mooring site on the lake. The marina is a highly developed, attractive and safe mooring site for approximately 300 sailboats. Given the marina's proximity to Salt Lake City and level of development it is generally filled to capacity. The marina also provides access to the lake for boaters who do not moor their vessels at the site. Two tour boats operate occasionally on the lake- one based at Antelope Island and the other at the GSL Marina. The park staff offers educational talks by reservation. Visitation to GSL Marina in 1997 is estimated at 461,000. Saltair/ South Shore ( DFFSL) This recreational complex consists of south shore beach areas and the Saltair Resort. It offers access to the lake and has an attractive visual impact, with its open expanse, islands and beautiful sunsets. Birding opportunities are also significant. Saltair Resort provides interpretive information, food, souvenirs, an historic site and special events ranging from concerts to beach festivals. This site provides the quickest and easiest access to the lake from downtown Salt Lake City. The entire South Shore Beach area and the marina were managed by DPR as GSL State Park. Management of the South Shore Beach Area was returned to DFFSL in 1997: At that time, over 600,000 people visited GSL State Park. There are a number of challenges inherent to the site including fluctuating water levels, odors and proximity to the Kennecott Copper Smelter. Farming ton Bay Waterfowl Management Area ( DWR) This 17,916- acre management area is one of the most popular waterfowl hunting areas in Utah and also is an outstanding birding area. Farmington Bay WMA is unique in that it provides important wetland habitat and wildlife- based recreation close to an urban area. The management area is also one of the best places to observe the freshwater interface with GSL. DWR manages their WMAs 133 |