Utah Open Lands is marking its 35th anniversary, a milestone dedicated to the preservation, protection, and stewardship of open spaces for generations to come.
The accredited land-trust conservation association has played a pivotal role in securing pristine areas near Park City, including notable locations such as Bonanza Flat and Wasatch Hollow, and across other parts of the state like Bridal Veil Falls near Provo, Brown Moab Ranch, and Arrowhead Preserve in Castle Valley.
To commemorate these achievements alongside current and future conservation efforts, Utah Open Lands will host its Portraits of Preservation Gala on Saturday, August 23, at Hi Ute Ranch.
The evening’s festivities will kick off at 5:30 p.m., according to Executive Director Wendy Fisher.
“The gala is a time when we get together and celebrate wonderful portraits of landscapes, families, and community,” Fisher stated.
She added that while the fundraiser is essential for ongoing efforts, it is also a celebration of collective achievements.
Dinner will feature a chuckwagon-style meal, complete with meat, vegetarian, and vegan options available during registration.
The evening will include discussions revealing the nonprofit’s commitment to conservation work, catering to both newcomers and longtime supporters.
Fisher noted, “We will talk about the things we are trying to accomplish in terms of resilience of the land — through regenerative agriculture, soil health, and addressing potential fire issues.”
She emphasized the importance of open spaces in fostering resilience within communities, stating, “We know these open spaces are critical to our quality of life and the places we call home.”
A unique equine liberty demonstration will also be part of the program, taking place under the ranch’s big top.
“This demonstration involves no halters, bridles, saddles or lead ropes; it’s all about using body language,” Fisher explained.
The aim is to showcase the connection between humans and horses, highlighting how collaboration with ranchers, often through horseback riding, enhances the experience of nature.
Secondly, she hopes attendees will gain insight into how horses perceive their environment.
“Horses are prey animals and are very attuned to their surroundings,” noted Fisher.
Attendees can expect to learn how horses can sense human emotions and reactions from a distance, allowing for a deeper connection between human and animal.
A behind-the-scenes reveal will accompany the liberty demonstration, offering insights into the methods used to foster human-equine bonds.
The evening will also encompass a paddle-raise fundraising session, with Fisher discussing ongoing conservation projects and future goals.
She remarked, “We have big campaigns in the Heber Valley and will reflect on milestones from our past while inspiring attendees to support our vision for the future.”
The dress code for the gala is elevated Western, with Fisher humorously advising against high heels: “Cowboy boots are a better way to go than stilettos.”
Fisher’s leadership at Utah Open Lands has allowed for the development of relationships with diverse landowners and has fostered a sense of nonpartisan unity around land conservation.
Reflections on the organization’s journey evoke a deep sense of pride.
“It’s amazing to think about where Utah Open Lands started as the first local land trust in the state,” Fisher shared.
She recalled a time when the concept of perpetual land conservation was difficult for people to grasp.
As the organization celebrates this milestone, Fisher expressed excitement for the future and the numerous accomplishments that lie ahead.
The Portraits of Preservation Gala promises to be an inspiring evening, showcasing the importance of open spaces while uniting individuals passionate about the preservation of Utah’s natural landscapes.
image source from：parkrecord
