Utah Wildlife Connections
Together we're creating safer roadways for Utah's wildlife and motorists.
Utah Wildlife Connectivity Working Group
Practitioners Collaborate to Support the I-80/I-84
Wildlife Crossing Grant Application
Many participating organizations in the "Utah Wildlife Connectivity Working Group" delivered letters of support for UDOT's I-80/I-84 wildlife crossing grant application. This is the number one hot spot for wildlife-vehicle collisions in the state of Utah. If this grant is awarded, the work to make this area safe for wildlife passage can be completed, including the development of a wildlife overpass crossing. These letters of support reflect Utah's solidarity and commitment to making our roads safe for wildlife and motorists, one hot spot at a time!
The Utah Wildlife Federation convenes the Working Group as a place for organizations and
proactive community members to find ways to work together to improve wildlife connectivity. This update is not meant to reflect an opinion of the Working Group as a whole, nor the opinions of any organization or individual who attends the Working Group meetings.
Celebrate the Legacy of Bart the Bear With Us!
Bart the Bear, a Grizzly bear born in 1977, became a beloved film star and a powerful symbol for wildlife conservation. Known for his performances in over 20 films, Bart’s gentle demeanor and impressive presence captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Adopted by Doug and Lynne Seus, Bart used his film career to raise awareness about the challenges facing bears and their habitats. His work sparked conversations about conservation, highlighting the importance of protecting our natural world.
After Bart’s passing in 2000, the Seuses founded the Vital Ground Foundation in his honor. This organization is dedicated to preserving critical wildlife habitats and connecting vital ecosystems across North America, ensuring that future generations can appreciate these magnificent creatures.
To celebrate Bart’s legacy, join us for the Bart the Bear Film Festival on November 15 and 16 at the Avon Theater in Heber, Utah. The event will feature:
A New Mural: A Bart the Bear "Utah Wildlife Walls" mural has just been added to the theater’s wall by Chris Peterson Studio.
Film Screenings: Enjoy selections showcasing Bart’s incredible performances.
Guest Speakers: Hear from Doug and Lynne Seus and conservationist Doug Peacock, who will share personal stories and insights.
Support for Conservation: Learn about the Vital Ground Foundation and how you can get involved.
Event Details
When: November 15th, 5 PM - 8:30 PM & November 16th, 9 AM - 8:30 PM
Where: Avon Theater, 94 South Main Street, Heber City, Utah
Tickets: $7 - $9
IN THE NEWS: Logan City "Utah Wildlife Walls" Mural sees its debut
In Logan, the 95’ x 30’ tunnel over the Little Logan River in Merlin Olsen Park has been a unique planning and logistical challenge. We’ve partnered with Logan City, Utah Cutthroat Slam (A Utah DWR and Utah Trout Unlimited partnership), Cache Anglers, Bridgerland Audubon and Western Native Trout Initiative to celebrate important species of Cache Valley. The headliner for this project is the Bear River cutthroat trout, occupying the whole river side of the tunnel.
Volunteer Opportunities
Do you care about wildlife conservation and are eager to make a difference in Utah? We are seeking dedicated volunteers to join the Planning Committee for the upcoming "Utah Wildlife Summit". This is a fantastic opportunity to play a vital role in shaping the conversation around conservation efforts in our state.
Viewing Wildlife Respectfully
As a wildlife photographer constantly out in the field, I have noticed an increase in people viewing and photographing wildlife. This year, particularly at popular locations such as national parks, state parks, and populated areas individuals have been seen photographing animals at very close distances. It’s become a topic of discussion in podcasts and other media outlets with most lamenting the wildlife have suffered because of it.
I’m just going to lay it out as I see it. If you really love wildlife- view and photograph at a responsible and unobtrusive distance! When you change the behavior of wildlife by your very presence, you’ve altered their life and the potential for feeding, protecting young, and even survival.
So, how do we view or photograph “responsibly” you ask? Here’s some suggestions:
At least study basic behaviors of your viewing target. Know what noises they make when bothered, know species specific body language, and seasonal behaviors.
Follow the recommended distance viewing as posted in all US National Parks:
Stay at least 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from predators like bears and wolves. Some parks require greater distances.
If wildlife moves towards you, move back.
Always know what’s going on around you. Leave plenty of room for you and the wildlife to move to a more comfortable location.
Use zoom lenses on cameras, utilize scopes, or binoculars. Smart phones now have zoom and wide angle options.
Don’t “push” wildlife to get a closer shot. Staying out of their “personal space” helps protect you as well.
Now get out there and enjoy all of the wonders we have the privilege to view and appreciate! A healthy environment of responsible coexistence with wildlife will benefit all of us!
UWF Spotlight & Meet the Author
Shauna Hart
UWF Board Member since 2023
Wildlife/Conservation Photographer
What do you want us to know about you?
Having been raised in a military family I had the opportunity to live and grow up all around the world. I’ve been in every state but 2 and I have learned to appreciate all four seasons. I raised my three kids in Texas and later married my current husband who is from Cache Valley. I love living in Cache Valley now, and appreciate the people, the mountains, and the wildlife that call it "home"!
I am grateful for the people I’ve met through UWF and the experiences I’ve had in advocating for Utah’s amazing land, water, and wildlife! I am a passionate artist trying to tell important stories through my photography. I strive to illustrate the urgency in preserving the unique bio-diverse ecosystems throughout Utah, and particularly northern Utah. I want my grand kids to know about and love the amazing wildlife I’ve had the chance to study and enjoy as I hike the mountains, walk the marshes, and enjoy the deserts in our beautiful state!
Favorite Food: anything chocolate or Italian!
Favorite Movie: Gone With The Wind, Win A Date With Tad Hamilton, and The Way We Were
Favorite Utah Locations: Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge and Flaming Gorge area
To learn more about Shauna's wildlife photography and UWF's work check out these podcasts:
Why I Give: A Dedicated Donor's Thoughts
We spoke with Ken, a long time donor, who shared why he gives to the Utah Wildlife Federation: “Like so many who call Utah home, I have a special appreciation for the unique natural landscape of our state. And I know that having diverse wildlife in vibrant habitat is a powerful indicator of how we are succeeding as stewards of this remarkable country. Every dollar I donate to the Utah Wildlife Federation is an investment in Utah actions to benefit Utah wildlife on our wonderfully unique Utah landscape."
Technology Feature: UDWR Releases New "Wildlife Habitat Analysis Tool" (WHAT)
According to DWR's website, "Using WHAT, you can perform a dynamic analysis of a land area using the satellite-based map interface, or you can generate a static analysis as a PDF file."
“With this new tool, the public will have access to comprehensive Utah plant and wildlife information all in one place, in an easy-to-navigate format,” DWR Natural Heritage Program Coordinator Maeve Stevens said. “Even if you aren’t a developer, conservationist, or land-use planner, it’s a fun tool that allows users to learn more about the interesting wildlife and plant species found in Utah."
Our board member, Shauna Hart, took a deep dive into exploring the tool. She says "I found EXTENSIVE information and amazing insight into the diverse habitat I’ve been studying. There is way more information than I imagined. At least for me, as an 'outsider' to scientific study and info gathering by professionals, I’m blown away. Amazing tool!"
Shop Our Swag
We are passionate about conserving our state’s rich wildlife and natural habitats. By shopping our swag, you’re not just buying a cute hat or hoodie; you’re making a meaningful contribution to our conservation efforts.
Every item bought helps us promote responsible practices and policies that safegaurd our state’s ecosystems. Your support helps us bring awareness to wildlife issues that affect our community, like wildlife crossings. Our shop features fun accessories like bags and educational materials like puzzles.
SPREAD THE WORD
Help us reach more community members who love wildlife by forwarding this newsletter to friends and family. Together, we can ensure wildlife thrive in Utah-- now and for future generations.
“The Utah Wildlife Federation is a reflection of a commitment to great stewardship. My local friends and neighbors serving with UWF to secure a bright future for wildlife is a reassurance that we will continue to 'pay it forward' so future generations can be blessed with powerful experiences in the wild."
-Ken, ONE OF OUR CONSTITUENTS
Our Contact Information
Utah Wildlife Federation
PO Box 571066
Salt Lake City, UT 84157
FB: @UtahWildlifeFederation
IG: @UtahWildlifeFederation
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