The results from a new Colorado College State of the Rockies Conservation in the West poll find that Utah voters across the political spectrum – from Tea Party supporters to those who identify with the Occupy Wall Street movement and voters in-between – view Utah’s parks and public lands as essential to our state’s economy, and quality of life. Voters also support upholding and strengthening protections for clean air, clean water, natural areas and wildlife.

The survey, completed by Lori Weigel of Public Opinion Strategies (a Republican firm) and Dave Metz of Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz & Associates (a Democratic firm), found that Utah voters nearly unanimously agree that public lands such as national parks, forests, monuments, and wildlife areas are “an essential part” of the state economy; 76 percent of Utah voters view having a good economy and protecting land and water as compatible with each other.

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