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Show DNR has not been responsible for some of the non- traditional resources of the lake such as eco- tourism, opportunities for world class research concerning climate change, cultural resources and geo- antiquities. These resources are non- economic and constituencies that advocate the development or preservation of these resources expect DNR to manage these resources. These resources have poorly defined economic values and are poorly inventoried and understood. Cultural resources have been protected by law and are valued by society even though they have limited economic value. ( SRC, unpub.) Eco- tourism Eco- tourism is becoming an important resource value ( SRC, unpub.). DWR, URMCC and USU Extension Services are currently designing GSL eco- tourism opportunities. Davis County promotes GSL wetlands, birds and Antelope Island State Park as an eco- tourism resource. A Bird Festival in Davis County was held inl999 and was considered a success first year event. The county also sells t- shirts and other souvenirs in local stores. Brigham City, is proud that it is the gateway to the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge which also hosts a large bird event each year. Generally, eco- tourism is a new resource value, and is currently underdeveloped as an economically productive non- traditional GSL resource. Eco- tourism is becoming an important management consideration as new opportunities are developed and public awareness increases, GSL resources will increase in social value and economic potential.( SRC, unpub.) World Class Research Opportunities Rapid urbanization and population growth is destroying the unusually rich record of earth history preserved in lake sediments. GSL and its environs has one of the best preserved and easily accessible earth systems history of lake processes in the world as well as a complete climate record extending back several thousand years. Urbanization and development within the flood plain ( lakebed) has destroyed this record at an alarming and accelerating rate. Climatic change is relatively well- funded field. GSL offers one of the best historians of climate change and Utah higher learning institutions have a great opportunity to contribute to climate change research. ( SRC, unpub.) Great Salt Lake Educational Resources Educational resources are recognized by state universities and other educational professionals, Natural History Museum, Utah Society for Environmental Education, Friends of Great Salt Lake, Great Salt Lake Coalition, The Nature Conservancy, National Audubon Society and others. GSL and its environs provide an excellent field educational opportunity for Utah's school children. The complexity and the dynamics of the lake's hydrology, chemistry, geology and biology provide outstanding opportunities to teach several subjects from kindergarten through high school. Service learning is a new way to teach science subjects at universities and GSL provide many hands- on opportunities. An outdoor classroom provides an effective setting for learning. GSL is an important educational resource and planners and 145 |