Bear Lake Comments

Name: John Spuhler
Address: Garden City, UT
Date: 3/01/2009

First I think the CMP project was necessary and is a good frame work to begin looking at policies that effect the ecology of the lake and the people who use it. There are areas that are without a doubt wetlands and meet the definition of Wetlands regarding wildlife, soils etc. One area for example the area between Utah State facility and just North of the boat ramp at Hodges Beach. Wild life like Ducks, Sandhill Cranes, and Geese are here all winter, 6 or more springs bring year round marshes, watercress, frogs and minnows live in the entire area and in the spring you can find larger fish coming up the small tributaries. It should be a class 5 protection area and currently has a class 2 or 3. Hunters frequent this area all winter for great hunting. I suggest at a minimum someone should evaluate this marsh area and consider its designation with appropriate protections. I have witness living on the beach many ATV's and 4 wheel drive vehicles trying to get through the springs for sport, with no designation or sign stating the obvious wetlands the wildlife is in jeopardy.

The other area that should be considered is ATV on the beach in any capacity. The rules set forth are impossible to enforce due the massive popularity of ATV's on the beach, until the state has proper man power unlawful ATV use cannot be and has not been controllable. Underage rides are everywhere, and small children building sandcastle with ATV's speeding around them is dangerous. It is very common to see high speed motocross type activity everywhere. Due to the fact people can drive their cars down to the beach, allowing the elderly, disabled, or little children access to the beach, ATV use on the beach should be completely abandoned. I do think the state is trying but the number of officer required to adequately enforce the rules is just not a reality.

Finally I think working with the local Cities and Counties is a very good idea to help with regulation and enforcement.

Regards,
John Spuhler
Resident Garden City