SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — As thousands of people prepared to celebrate Independence Day at the Bonneville Salt Flats, volunteers and land managers asked visitors to clean up after themselves to protect one of Utah’s most iconic landscapes.
The Bureau of Land Management approved the use of fireworks at the Salt Flats again this year, continuing a tradition that draws large holiday crowds. While many visitors come to watch fireworks or take photos of the unique landscape, volunteers said the celebration often leaves behind a significant amount of trash.
“It’s a magical place,” said volunteer Jason Marsh. “You’ll never hear anybody say, ‘I’ve been to Bonneville and it was okay.’ They either love it, or they think you’re nuts for coming out here.”
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Marsh, known in the racing community as “Opie,” has raced more than 200 mph on the Salt Flats. He now spends much of his time cleaning up debris left behind by visitors…