Boating safety
Utah State Parks officials urge boaters and swimmers to use precaution on the water after four recent drownings in Utah's reservoirs. Nearly 80 percent of boating fatalities could be prevented with the use of life jackets. Utah State Parks Boating Coordinator Dave Harris recommends always wearing a life jacket, never swimming alone, not drinking alcohol while out on the water, and being aware of changes in the water such as swift currents or deep water. For more information on boating and swimming safety, call 801-538-2628 in the Salt Lake Area, 800-743-3792 from outside Salt Lake, or visit www.stateparks.utah.gov.
Refuge tours
The Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is hosting guided refuge tours on Thursdays, from 9 a.m. to noon, and Saturdays, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Participants can learn about birds, history and management. There is no fee, but donations are appreciated. You can ride in your own vehicle or in a van with the guides. Call the refuge at 435-723-5887 to reserve your spot or visit http://bearriver.fws.gov for more information.
Great Salt Lake
Audubon events
The Great Salt Lake Audubon is leading a walk along the Jeremy Ranch Road and the first section of the road up East Canyon on Saturday at 7:30 a.m. Organizers hope to see a variety of birds including catbirds, yellow-rumped warblers and kingfishers. Meet in the ShopKo parking lot in Sugar House at 7:30 a.m. Contact Kim at 435-658-2976 for more information and to let her know you'll be there.
On Wednesday, the Great Salt Lake Audubon will head to Farmington Bay for their monthly half-day visit. Meet at the McDonald's off the Centerville exit at 7 a.m. and expect to leave around 7:30 a.m. Bring your own water and snacks. Call Bob at 801-595-8748 if you plan to attend.
Campground
construction
The Forest Service will have construction crews working through July 3 in the Yankee Meadow area, near Parowan, to create designated campsites. The campsites are being created to help protect soil, water and plants in the area and will be marked with natural barricades and numbered sites. Camping and recreation will still be available during the construction, but campers must be present at their campsites and can't leave trailers unattended for multiple days as these trailers and other equipment may need to be moved. Contact the Cedar City Ranger District at 435-865-3700 for more information.
* To get your event listed, e-mail the information to brettp@sltrib.com or mail it to Brett Prettyman, The Salt Lake Tribune, 90 S. 400 West, Suite 700, Salt Lake City, UT 84101.
