Proposed Utah bill sparks concerns over Parley’s Canyon mining threat

The area where a proposed quarry would be located in Parley's Canyon is pictured in May 2023. Photo: Mike Stephen

SALT LAKE CITY — A newly proposed state bill, H.B. 355, has raised concern among environmental advocates, who warn that it could pave the way for mining in Parley’s Canyon, bypassing local protections designed to safeguard air, water, and land quality.

The nonprofit group Save Our Canyons is urging residents to oppose the legislation, arguing that it undermines Salt Lake County’s 2022 zoning ordinance, which banned new mines in the Wasatch Mountains. If passed, the bill would shift the burden of proof onto local communities, requiring them to present “clear and convincing evidence” that a proposed mine would harm public health—a standard critics say is nearly impossible to meet.

“Salt Lake already struggles with poor air quality, and this bill could make things worse,” Save Our Canyons said in a statement. “If it passes, it won’t just impact Parley’s Canyon—it sets a dangerous precedent for mining projects across Utah.”

 

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Supporters of the bill argue it promotes economic development, but opponents say it strips local governments of decision-making authority over land use. Advocates are urging residents to contact elected officials to voice their opposition before the bill moves forward.

Granite Construction is still waiting on approval to build the mine along I-80, known as South Quarry. The Utah Division of Air Quality and Salt Lake County have each said they won’t grant approval because of strong local opposition to the project. The proposed mine would be located about three miles from Salt Lake City up Parley’s Canyon.

A shareholders’ proposal, filed in January 2024, said the quarry’s potential to “expose nearby communities to toxic fugitive dust, excavate up to 634 acres of forest land, and displace the known presence of elk, moose, black bear, mountain lion, golden eagle, and other species” is a considerable business risk.

H.B. 355 is being sponsored by Rep. Casey Snider, Majority Assistant Whip, of Cache County – District 5.