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Show recommended more detailed studies. The timing of these additional studies was questioned by several speakers as to whether the studies should proceed in conjunction with construction and operation of Unit features or whether they should be completed before any additional work was initiated. The proposed diking of Utah Lake was a particularly controversial subject. Most questions relating to Utah Lake were concerned with the Provo Bay area, which was represented as a desirable waterfowl and upland game habitat. Many non- game birds had also been observed in the area. Goshen Bay would be developed as a State Wildlife Management Area but there was the question as to whether natural inflow into the Management Area would provide enough water of sufficient quality to make the proposal feasible. Pumping from Utah Lake, or some other source, could be necessary. There was also the question of the elimination of some of the shallow areas in the lake used for spawning of channel catfish and other fish species. This feature helps to make Utah Lake the most valuable warm- water fishery in the State. There was a division of opinion over the relative value of stream fishing as compared to reservoir fishing. The availability of quality stream fishing in Utah is being reduced by encroachments from reservoir inundation and other developments. While reservoir fishing attracts a greater number of fishermen, others prefer the challenge and atmosphere of stream fishing which is already in short supply. In addition to the loss of habitat for migratory birds around Utah Lake, another major concern for loss of wildlife habitat was at the Upper Stillwater reservoir site. In addition to deer and beaver there is evidence of a small moose herd in the upper reaches of the Rock Creek drainage. Animal crossings of Unit canals, where the canals interfere with migratory routes, were also requested. It was generally recognized that stabilizing the water surface in ik of the 15 lakes in the Upper Provo drainage would improve their value for fishing and other recreational uses. Recreation As the various features of the Bonneville Unit would be developed it was indicated that there would be an increased pressure on agencies such as the State Division of Parks and Recreation and the Forest Service which would be administering the various recreational facilities. Unfortunately, funds available to these agencies for additional facilities are limited and actual construction may lag behind the public demand. The Forest Service specifically requested that 638 |
