"We're asking them not to support this circus because supporting the circus supports animal abuse," said Nicole Meyer of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

"You can be assured there will be people protesting Carson and Barnes if they are in Salt Lake."

A letter Meyer sent July 19 to Fairpark Director Richard Frenette details that the Carson and Barnes Circus is under investigation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for two alleged violations of the federal Animal Welfare Act.

While USDA official Jim Rodgers confirmed Meyer's assertions, he said one case - supposedly into the death of a 5-year-old Asian elephant - was closed July 22.

Circus spokeswoman Brenda Pobre said that means there is no problem with how Carson and Barnes treats its animals. She called the current investigation a perfunctory probe into a 2003 incident where trailers carrying elephants accidentally overturned.

Denise Stanger, spokeswoman for the Utah State Fairpark, agreed. She said her organization would not consider canceling the circus - even in light of the open investigation.

"The state fair park is a facility that is rented out to various groups, and as far as the fair park is aware, the circus is a good family activity," she said.

Carson and Barnes is scheduled to perform tonight in Pleasant Grove. Shows at the Utah State Fairpark in Salt Lake City are scheduled JFriday to Sunday. The Carson and Barnes Circus is a nationally recognized organization with eight performing elephants and a "seven-person pyramid" high-wire act.

nwarburton@sltrib.com