April 20, 2000

Boyd Howarth/Juab County Commissioner: "EXTREME. THEY THROW PALLETS IN A PILE, START 'EM ON FIRE AND WHEN THEY LEAVE, THEN THE ASHES AND ALL THAT DEBRIS IS LEFT--FILLED WITH NAILS AND WHATEVER THAT'S IN A PALLET."

Standing around a bonfire is a big part of the fun for those who go to the Little Sahara Recreational Area in Central Utah.

But when thousands of Utahns go there for the Easter weekend, they won't be allowed to have bonfires, and that's not all.

This is a big 'get out of town' weekend and people are definitely shopping for outdoors supplies. We found out that the holiday weekend is no holiday at all for Utah parks, tourist spots and for those people who clean up after everyone leaves.

Little Sahara is a popular spot for tourists and for trash-- specifically glass bottles. The County Commission says it takes weeks to clean up from the Easter weekend alone.

So, it'll be illegal to build bonfires or have glass containers outside a car or tent.

The main problem this holiday weekend in other areas is traffic.

About 1,400 jeep enthusiasts are in Moab this weekend for the Jeep Safari. Every Moab police officer, including city dog catchers, are on the streets there.

The streets are also packed in St. George for a big cruising weekend. Eighty to 100 officers will try to control traffic, not by stoplights, but by directing it themselves. An officer on every block downtown.

The chief of police told us they're expecting bigger crowds this weekend, and Salt Lake and West Valley City officers have been called in to help.

Lake Powell is also a hot spot, but it may be a little chilly for water skiing. Still, whether it's on water, in tents or just cruising, lots of people are expected at the usual destinations.

Courtland Nelson/Dir. of State Parks: "THIS IS USUALLY THE FIRST BIG WEEKEND WHEN PEOPLE TAKE OFF."

Call ahead for reservation information if you're looking to camp, but the popular spots are likely already full. If you're looking for areas that may less crowded..

Courtland Nelson/Dir. of State Parks: "ESCALANTE, KODACHROME, OUR MUSEUM AT ANASAZI WOULD LIKELY NOT BE VERY BUSY."

And I can add to that list. I'm told there's less of a crowd and great golf at Palisades State Park.

Also, expect boating crowds at Utah Lake, Yuba and maybe Bear Lake. So try Starvation Reservoir along Highway 40, near Duchesne.