As winter approaches, anglers in Utah are facing uncertainty about access to the Strawberry Reservoir marina, a popular fishing destination. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources issued a warning that the winter access road to the reservoir may not be plowed this year, which could significantly impact ice fishing opportunities. The main road, Forest Road No. 131, also known as West Strawberry Road, is the primary access route for anglers hoping to reach the Strawberry Bay Marina, where lodging and amenities are available through the Strawberry Bay Lodge. Cameron Phillips, who co-owns the lodge with his father, Paul Phillips, has been at the forefront of the discussions surrounding road access. Paul has historically taken on the responsibility of plowing West Strawberry Road in collaboration with the United States Forest Service since 1994. However, two years ago, the responsibility for the road was transferred to Wasatch County, prompting the Phillips family to negotiate new terms with county officials regarding the maintenance and plowing of the road. Cameron Phillips explained that maintaining the road has become increasingly costly. In past years, the Phillips family bore the burden of plowing expenses, which once totaled about $70,000 but have now surged to approximately $150,000 due to inflation. With the financial strain weighing heavily on their business, the family was optimistic that Wasatch County would ease some of the financial responsibilities associated with plowing the road. Despite initial hopes, negotiations hit a snag this year. Wasatch County offered to cover a $40,000 bond that would allow the Phillips family to obtain a permit to plow the road, but the proposed contract failed to provide the necessary liability coverage or financial support for ongoing maintenance. "That was the big hang-up," Cameron said, referring to the unwillingness to incur additional costs for what he views as a public service. County officials have expressed their desire to keep the road open for anglers, but they have also voiced concerns about the fairness of placing the financial burden solely on taxpayers. The situation has created a complex web of negotiations, as officials seek a solution that balances community interests and fiscal responsibility. Jeff Salt, Secretary and Treasurer of the Utah Anglers Coalition, highlighted the significance of the Strawberry Reservoir to the state’s fishing community. With around 450,000 Utahns holding fishing licenses, Strawberry Reservoir ranks as one of the most frequented fishing spots in Utah. According to a 2023 Blue Ribbon Economic Survey by Utah’s Watershed Restoration Initiative, anglers spend an average of $188 per trip and fish approximately 20 times annually. This generates significant economic activity for Wasatch County, benefiting local businesses and services, including gas stations, convenience stores, and lodging facilities. The survey estimated that licensed anglers contribute over $1 billion annually to the state’s economy. Salt warned that closing the road could lead to unintended consequences. Anglers might still attempt to access the reservoir through unsafe means, potentially creating public safety hazards. "If the road closes, we could see anglers trying to navigate it on their own, putting themselves at risk of getting stuck or injured," he noted. This concern raises further issues, as emergency services may struggle to reach injured individuals in remote areas without proper access. In a bid to address these challenges, representatives from the state departments, Wasatch County officials, and the Phillips family convened on Monday to discuss potential resolutions. Cameron Phillips reported that this meeting was more collaborative than previous discussions, and all parties appeared open to amending the contracts that govern the plowing of West Strawberry Road. He remains hopeful that a viable agreement can be reached by the end of the week. While the road’s condition remains uncertain, Cameron noted that the current weather has not presented significant issues, as there is insufficient snow at this time. However, he urged anglers to exercise caution and to proceed with winter recreational activities at their own risk. The ongoing negotiations will not only determine access for this winter season but could set precedence for future agreements concerning road maintenance and public access in the years to come. The outcome of these discussions will be closely monitored by the fishing community and local businesses that depend on the influx of anglers during the winter months. As the situation develops, the hope is that a mutually beneficial solution can be found to ensure that Strawberry Reservoir remains accessible to those who cherish its fishing opportunities.