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SALT LAKE CITY — Gov. Gary Herbert decided to turn his state park directive into an executive order, meaning there would be a possible penalty for those who don’t follow it.
Herbert said Utah’s state parks would remain open, but only for residents in the county where their state park is located. It was issued as part of his “Stay Safe, Stay Home” directive.
He later decided to make his directive into an order, meaning there would be a law enforcement element behind it.
Park managers said they have been waiting for the governor to sign an executive order to make it official. Once he does, visitors will have to provide identification proving they live in the county where the park is located.
“We’re here to serve the people, but we’re also here to protect the people, and that’s what we really want to emphasize,” said Utah State Parks Lt. Eric Stucki.
The earlier directive was based on honesty, and state park workers weren’t required to check for identification at entrance gates.
Once the governor signs the executive order, that will change.
At Sand Hollow State Park in Southern Utah, park manager Jonathan Hunt said many visitors have already been providing identification.
“As the customers approach our entrance station, most of them are expecting us to ask their residency. They’re proud to be from Washington County,” said Hunt. “Those that are not have been very accepting of turning around and finding a different place to relocate.”
We’re here to serve the people, but we’re also here to protect the people, and that’s what we really want to emphasize.
–Lt. Eric Stucki, Utah State Parks
The order was issued in an attempt to try and decrease travel across the state, limiting the spread of coronavirus.
“That’s going to help us all to not be tempted to travel when we shouldn’t be traveling to go to some of our beautiful state parks,” said Governor Herbert.
The details of the executive order were still being worked out as of Thursday afternoon.
