SALT LAKE CITY (Feb. 23, 2024) — Utah Department of Natural Resources Executive Director Joel Ferry has appointed Scott Strong as the new Utah Division of State Parks director. The Utah State Parks Board announced its support on Thursday. Strong has served as interim director since Jeff Rasmussen retired in December after working for Utah State Parks for 31 years.
The waterfalls at Gunlock State Park have ceased to flow due to an operational modification of Gunlock Reservoir requested by the Utah Division of Parks and Recreation. High levels of visitation have made it difficult for individuals and families to social distance themselves from others during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the wake of COVID-19, state and federal land managing agencies are coordinating together to help Utahns better navigate outdoor recreational opportunities, restrictions and changing conditions at both state and national parks, as well as other recreation areas statewide.