Director’s Message

We are living through a time of profound challenges for our lands and natural resources. Across the country—and here at home in Utah—we are witnessing the consequences of diminishing support at the federal level and, regrettably, from some of our own elected officials.

Efficiency in managing public resources is critical, but it must not come at the expense of the ecosystems that define our heritage. True efficiency means investing wisely, planning thoughtfully, and building resilience in our lands, waters, and wildlife for future generations—not liquidating irreplaceable public assets for short-term gain. The choices we make today ripple through every stream, every field, and every family. These impacts are not abstract—they are personal. Stewardship and efficiency are not opposing goals; they are partners in creating a sustainable, strong future.

As we witness this troubling shift in policy, we are reminded of the growing weight our public lands carry—strained by overuse, underfunding, and neglect. These lands are more than boundaries on a map; they are the heart of our communities, the source of our water, our clean air, and our sense of place. The urgency is real. And yet, I remain hopeful—because in every voice raised, every acre restored, and every act of stewardship, we see the path forward. Hope lives on in the farmers, the scientists, the rangers, and the volunteers who are protecting and working to restore their lands for what matters most.

The Summit County Department of Lands and Natural Resources will continue to stand up for every acre, species, and community initiative aimed at restoration and protection of our open lands. We will advocate with humility, resolve, and the belief that a better future is still possible.

In this community—where land is part of our soul, where recreation and ranching shape our lives, and where open spaces are part of our legacy—we are not powerless. We are not alone. And we are not done.

Jess Kirby
Director, Summit County Lands and Natural Resources

Wildfire Awareness

More than 70% of wildfires in Utah are human-caused—and preventable. We all love our community—let’s keep it safe. Don’t let one spark become a disaster.

Here are some tips to practice your #FireSense:

• Dry Grass Can Burn in a Flash
  Parking on dry grass is a threat to beautiful landscapes everywhere. Make sure to steer clear of wildfires by parking on pavement, gravel, or dirt.
  

• Be Our Guest and Put Fires to Rest
  Even one hot coal can easily spread its heat, unless it's completely doused. Before you walk away, make sure your fire pit is as cool as you are.

This year, the County and area Fire Districts are taking proactive steps by restricting open fires and fireworks due to conditions, reduced federal staffing and a predicted high-risk fire season.

Summit County wants you to stay informed during wildfire season by texting “SCFIRE” to 91896. Subscribe today.

910 Ranch Updates 

• Management planning is actively underway, with a focus this summer on researching and establishing management goals for key topics including grazing and rangeland health, wildlife, recreational use, and watershed protection.
  

• Summit County has been awarded funding from the RAP Recreation Tax Grant and the 2025 Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant to further planning on the 910 Ranch. Thanks to the Division of Outdoor Recreation for the support!
  

• We recently hosted our first public restoration event on the 910 Ranch, planting over 700 willows along a tributary that feeds East Canyon Creek.

Ure Ranch Updates

• Summit County Lands and Natural Resources staff continue to apply for grants to close the funding gap on this property. The County is projected to close on a portion of the property this December 2025.

• Additional cultural surveys are being conducted this summer. 

• Funding from the RAP Recreation Tax Grant was awarded to complete a baseline assessment and begin management planning for the Ure Ranch.

• In partnership with Summit Land Conservancy, Three Springs Ranch has begun a long term rangeland health monitoring program for the North Meadows in conjunction with the conservation easement that will be placed on the property.

61 acres in Eastern Summit County Preserved Forever

A 61-acre Eastern Summit County property known as “Maxo Meadow” closed on June 16 as the latest win for Summit County agricultural preservation. This conservation easement came to fruition thanks to the dedicated efforts of Summit Land Conservancy, the Eastern Summit County Agriculture Preservation and Open Lands Advisory Committee (ESAP), and Summit County bond funds. This is the fifth conservation easement secured since the General Obligation Bond for Open Space was passed by Summit County voters in 2021.
 
The Maxo Meadow is a symbol of the county’s agricultural heritage, with farming and ranching dating back over 100 years. The current cattle grazing agricultural operation is run by the Young family on the property and the landowners want it to continue operating as a ranch and remain within the family.

Summit County acquires property and secures conservation easements for open space, conservation, and agricultural preservation. The County welcomes landowners to submit a Notice of Interest, or “NOI”, to have their property evaluated for possible qualified use of these Open Space Bond Funds. A NOI may only be completed by the property owner or an authorized representative. Find out more here.

Douglas-Fir Beetle Outbreak in Summit Park

What You Need to Know:
Summit Park is facing a serious threat to its forest health. An aggressive outbreak of Douglas-fir beetles has already killed or severely damaged an estimated 50–60 trees. The outbreak began on privately-owned vacant lots and part of Summit Park Open Space. Without quick action, the beetles could spread throughout the neighborhood.

How You Can Help:

1. Identify Douglas-fir Trees
Start by learning how to recognize Douglas-firs among other conifers. Check out this guide from USU Extension for detailed descriptions and helpful photos.

2. Look for Signs of Infestation
Watch for boring dust around the base of trees or in bark crevices, pitch tubes (small, sap-like globs on the bark) and browning or thinning needles.

3. Report Infestations
If you spot any of these symptoms, contact:
- Summit Park HOA: [email protected]
- Summit County Lands and Natural Resources Department: [email protected]

3. Protect Healthy Trees
The Summit Park HOA is distributing non-toxic pheromone repellents proven to deter beetle attacks. If you live nearby, you may be eligible to receive one for your property.

Meet our summer intern: Megan Lusher!

Q: What makes you most excited about working with Summit County's Lands and Natural Resources Department?
A: I'm excited about being a part of Summit County initiatives and projects that are committed to improving the environmental quality of a community I care deeply about. I'm from Park City and love the idea of having a positive impact on my hometown!

Q: What do you hope to take away and learn from this internship experience?
A: I hope to learn about and participate in real world processes within the field of environmental science, land resource management, and sustainability. I also hope to become more involved in the Summit County community.

Noxious Weed of the Month: Houndstongue

How do I know if I have noxious weeds?
For more information on noxious weeds in Summit County, please visit here or check out summitcwma.org. You can also contact Dave Bingham, Summit County Weed Superintendent [email protected]

Ambassador & Volunteer Outreach Updates: 

Wildlife Watch: Baby Elk Playdate