Utah Businesses Pledge $30M to Save Great Salt Lake

Effort aims to revive lake before 2034 Olympics in Salt Lake City

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:05pm

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A photorealistic studio still-life image featuring a collection of polished, geometric salt crystals in various shades of white and gray, arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conceptually representing the fragile state of the Great Salt Lake.A collection of delicate salt crystals from the Great Salt Lake, a natural wonder facing an uncertain future due to drought and environmental pressures.Salt Lake City Today

A group of Utah business leaders have committed $30 million to help save the rapidly dwindling Great Salt Lake before the 2034 Winter Olympics are held in Salt Lake City. The lake's water levels have dropped dramatically in recent years due to persistent drought, exposing delicate reef-like structures and raising concerns about the environmental and economic impact if the lake continues to decline.

Why it matters

The Great Salt Lake is a vital natural resource for Utah, providing economic, environmental, and recreational benefits. Its decline poses risks to the state's ecosystem, air quality, and ability to host major events like the Olympics. Business leaders recognize the urgency to act and preserve this unique landmark.

The details

The $30 million pledge comes from a coalition of Utah business groups, including the Salt Lake Chamber, Silicon Slopes, and the Utah Manufacturers Association. The funds will go towards conservation efforts, scientific research, and public awareness campaigns to address the lake's water crisis. State and local officials have also pledged support, but more funding and action will be needed to restore the lake to sustainable levels.

  • The Great Salt Lake's water levels have dropped dramatically in recent years due to persistent drought.
  • The 2034 Winter Olympics are scheduled to be held in Salt Lake City.

The players

Salt Lake Chamber

A business association representing companies in the Salt Lake City metropolitan area.

Silicon Slopes

A non-profit organization that promotes Utah's technology and startup ecosystem.

Utah Manufacturers Association

A trade group representing manufacturing companies in the state of Utah.

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What they’re saying

“The Great Salt Lake is a vital natural resource for Utah, and we must act now to save it before it's too late.”

— Derek Miller, President and CEO, Salt Lake Chamber

What’s next

State and local officials will work with the business coalition to develop and implement a comprehensive plan to restore the Great Salt Lake's water levels in time for the 2034 Olympics.

The takeaway

The commitment of $30 million from Utah's business leaders demonstrates the urgency and importance of saving the Great Salt Lake, a unique natural wonder that is essential to the state's environment, economy, and future.