SALT LAKE COUNTY, Utah, April 5, 2022 (Gephardt Daily) — The Salt Lake County Council voted unanimously Tuesday to approve an amendment prohibiting mining and mineral extraction in the Wasatch Foothills and Canyons Overlay Zone.
The mining ban seeks to preserve the natural environment of the Wasatch Front while protecting public health and safety, county officials said.
Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson applauded the County Council’s action in a statement following the vote.
“Active measures are necessary to protect our canyon environment and preserve recreation opportunities,” Wilson said in a news release. “Today, Salt Lake County took an active measure to prohibit future mining in the Wasatch range.
“The amendment supported by the County Council today seeks to eliminate mining and mineral extraction in the Wasatch Canyons. Salt Lake County understands the need to preserve our Wasatch range for residents to enjoy today and in the future. Further, mining impacts our water and air quality, which are vital to the health of our community,” she said.
More than 1,000 public comments in favor of the amendment were submitted to county leaders ahead of the vote, according to the news release.
