The Temple of Sinawava dam, built in 1957, kept native fish like flannelmouth suckers pinned downstream on the Virgin River.

Zion National Park’s staff numbers haven’t kept up with rising visitation, and the Trump administration’s federal hiring freeze hasn’t helped. Park officials say visitors should help prevent search and rescue operations by planning ahead.

The amendment proposed by Utah Rep. Celeste Maloy would have sold more than 10,000 acres of federal land near St. George to local governments.

“This major excavation of soil that is happening right now to create luxury developments, to create golf courses — that is also creating tremendous dust exposures,” said University of Utah epidemiologist Katharine Walter.

Researchers in southwest Utah use the annual event to gather data about the elusive desert iguanas. It illustrates how community science could help a rare species survive.

Local leaders want to shore up roads and water infrastructure for Washington County’s future growth. Conservationists worry it could open the door to privatizing Western landscapes.

The iconic Ironman triathlon introduced southwest Utah to the world of endurance athletes. But population growth, high costs and “Ironman fatigue” led local leaders to cut ties with the race after 2025.