The Inland Ports’ true intentions shine through 

The Utah Inland Port Authority’s latest moves highlight why this state-run, tax-subsidized project remains a significant threat to Utah’s environment, public health, and taxpayer dollars.

A new crude-by-rail terminal near Wellington in Carbon County, developed by Savage, will expand the transport of Uinta Basin’s yellow and black wax crude oil to refineries across North America. This development not only increases the extraction and burning of climate-damaging crude oil but also risks local air and water quality.

Increased oil production in the Uinta Basin raises serious concerns about the region’s already dangerous ozone levels. The Basin consistently struggles with some of the worst ozone pollution in the nation, especially during wintertime inversions. Ozone, a harmful air pollutant, can exacerbate asthma, reduce lung function, and increase the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Expanding oil operations will only worsen these conditions, putting both local residents and workers at greater risk of severe health effects.


Additionally, residents of Salt Lake City are footing the bill for Inland Port impacts in unexpected ways. Property taxes are rising due to the increased workload of the Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District. The Inland Port captures 75% of tax revenue from new developments in its area, leaving the mosquito district scrambling to fund additional mitigation efforts for the port’s workers and wetlands. 

This is yet another reason why industrial development in sensitive wetlands and undeveloped areas is so dangerous. Wetlands are critical ecosystems that support biodiversity, store carbon, and act as natural filters for our water. Destroying them to make way for warehouses and rail facilities not only disrupts these vital functions but has also expanded the spraying of dangerous pesticides. 

UPHE recently sounded the alarm about “forever chemicals” or PFAS being found in pesticides. While some states are testing for PFAS in pesticides, Utah hasn’t implemented any sort of testing, monitoring or regulations to face this increased public health threat. 

These actions make it clear that the Utah Inland Port is not committed to creating healthier communities; instead, its priorities lie with developers and big industry, placing profits over the well-being of Utah’s residents and environment.


The Utah Inland Port Authority ALSO recently voted to consider developing nuclear microreactors in Emery County. The Inland Port’s involvement in nuclear microreactors adds yet another layer of concern about its priorities. While nuclear microreactors are marketed as smaller, safer, and more cost-effective alternatives to traditional reactors, the state is involved in a lawsuit aimed at weakening federal safety standards to fast-track development.