1. United States
2. Utah
3. Letter

The Great Salt Lake, a critical ecosystem and public health asset, is under severe threat due to unsustainable water diversion. The lake's volume has reduced by two-thirds, risking the survival of North America's largest migratory bird colony and potentially releasing toxic dust from the exposed lakebed, affecting 2.5 million people. Dust storms in Salt Lake City have increased from none to 15 annually within 15 years. Similar situations have led to health crises and decreased life expectancy elsewhere. It is imperative to reduce upstream water diversions and implement conservation policies. We urge you to uphold the public trust doctrine, which calls for responsible stewardship of our environment, and hold the state accountable for protecting the Great Salt Lake. Our environment's future and public health are at stake.