Scenic Value

The size and scope of the proposed I-80 South Quarry would be the largest mining operation in the Central Wasatch Mountains.
The estimated operational life of this new gravel pit is ~100 years.
The Harper/Kilgore Quarry, the existing gravel pit in Parleys Canyon, currently operates on 11 acres but over its 125 year history has disturbed 67 acres. This is only ~10% the size of the proposed I-80 South Quarry (634 acres).
Rio Tinto’s Bingham Copper Mine, visible from the Salt Lake Valley (as well as from space), has expanded to 1,900 acres over the past 115 years. The proposed 635 acre I-80 South Quarry would initially be one-third that size.
If the initial project is allowed to proceed, the value of all adjacent parcels is effectively ruined for anything except more excavation. The total potential affected acreage is ~2000 acres- equal in size to the Bingham Canyon Copper Mine.

Environmental Impacts

Wildfire

Significantly increased industrial activity will dramatically increase the risk of wildfires.

Habitat Destruction

The proposed I-80 South Quarry would destroy hundreds of acres of habitat for elk, deer, lynx, bobcat, moose, black bear, mountain lion, golden eagle, and other species.

Water Supply & Quality

Fugitive dust from the proposed gravel pit is not only a threat to our air quality but also to our increasingly scarce water supply.

Air Quality

Gravel pits are harmful to air quality due to the high volume of fugitive dust they emit. The proposed Parleys

We’re a collaboration of individuals and organizations dedicated to saving Parleys Canyon from destructive development and exploitation, now and forever.

We have been fortunate to partner with Save Our Canyons and we thank them for assisting us with our email list, donations, and petition.

We can be reached at info@saveparleys.org