Utah Nature Photography -- Conservation Efforts

Below are some recent photographs that I have been working on. I am currently working on my photography BFA project for my Fall 2024 art exhibition at Utah Valley University. My BFA photography project based in the beautiful state of Utah centers around endangered and threatened wildlife/plant species. Through visually captivating photographs, my goal is to promote greater awareness of the declining health and function of our ecosystem. Each photograph will serve as a call to action and urge viewers to recognize their role in preserving local biodiversity. By exploring the interconnectedness of ecosystems, I hope to inspire a sense of responsibility within the community. Join me in appreciating, reflecting, and advocating for the protection of Utah's vulnerable wildlife and ecosystems! 

Utah Nature Conservation Efforts

Pelicans at Tracy Aviary -- Salt Lake City, Utah 

On February 19th, 2024, I visited the Tracy Aviary in Salt Lake City, Utah, where I captured this photograph (see above). Delving deeper into my interest in endangered animals within Utah, I chose the aviary for its diverse collection of endangered bird species. Among them, I focused on pelicans. My research unveiled a concerning trend: in 2023 in the Great Salt Lake area, their population experienced a rapid decline, alarming scientists. The primary cause attributed to this decline is the diminishing water levels, intensifying the challenges faced by these majestic birds. After doing this research it was clear that my photographic endeavor had a clear purpose – to raise awareness. 

Utah Nature Conservation Efforts

Bison at Antelope Island -- Davis County, Utah

On March 26, 2024, I visited Antelope Island in Davis County, Utah. Delving deeper into my interest in endangered animals within Utah, I stumbled upon these big beautiful creatures that roam an island in Northern Utah. I learned that in the early twentieth-century, there were conservation herds that were created in an effort to increase the population of bison. While they no longer face extinction thankfully, they still face colossal challenges such as a decline in natural selection pressures. They also have a decrease in the variety of genes among the bison, making it increasingly difficult to bring back bison populations. As a nature photographer, I am naturally drawn to animals here in Utah and I feel that it is my duty to spread awareness on these creatures that need our help. And these bison are just one of countless animals in Utah that are in need of conservation efforts.