As drought conditions persist and Great Salt Lake continues to recede, Utahns are growing increasingly concerned about toxic dust storms blowing off miles of exposed, dry lakebed. These dust events, laden with dangerous pollutants like arsenic and heavy metals, pose a growing threat to the health and future of millions along the Wasatch Front.
In response, local nonprofit Grow the Flow is hosting a free, public Great Salt Lake community forum on Thursday, July 31, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Clubhouse SLC, 850 E. South Temple St., Salt Lake City.
The evening will feature a live Q&A with two of Utah’s foremost environmental scientists: Dr. Ben Abbott, a Brigham Young University ecologist and executive director of Grow the Flow, and Dr. Kevin Perry, University of Utah atmospheric scientist and a national expert on Great Salt Lake dust. Together, they’ll break down what toxic dust means for public health, agriculture, recreation, and the long-term livability of the Wasatch Front.
“We’re underestimating the consequences of a shrinking Great Salt Lake,” said Dr. Abbott. “This isn’t just an environmental crisis—Utah’s economy, public health, and way of life are at risk. But it’s entirely preventable. We have the knowledge and the tools, we just need the will to act.”
The Great Salt Lake’s South Arm elevation currently stands at 4193.4 ft above mean sea level (MSL), meaning the lake is only 37.1% full by volume, leaving 1139 square-miles—or 53%— of lakebed exposed. By the end of the summer, the lake will likely recede below 4192 ft., exceeding the Great Salt Lake Strike Team’s threshold for “Serious Adverse Effects” on the public, the economy, and the lake’s ecology.
Great Salt Lake dust is linked to increased respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, developmental defects, and cancer. Attendees of “Great Salt Lake Community Forum — Is GSL Dust Threatening Your Future?” will have the opportunity to ask questions to Great Salt Lake experts, engage with other concerned residents, and learn how they can help advocate for solutions to restore the lake and reduce toxic dust exposure. All are welcome! Whether you’re a parent, farmer, policymaker, student, or just someone who wants to breathe clean air, this forum offers a chance to be part of the conversation.