Beginning in the early 60’s, the Bear Lake basin was discovered as a
major recreation area. By the late 60’s, an increase in recreational demands
on the lake environment was evident. A number of large development
corporations began focusing attention on Bear Lake and it’s basin.
Local elected officials and citizens became concerned as the character of
the basin and the quality of Bear Lake began to change. As a result of this
concern, public meetings were held on August 12, 1971. At an informal
congressional hearing, local representatives expressed their concern
regarding the rate of pollution into the lake, and the large number of
tourists and developers in combination with lack of adequate sanitary
facilities.
It was evident the Bear Lake citizens favored the formation of a
Bi-state, Bi-county organization to coordinate planning efforts in both
counties and supported construction of adequate sewage facilities.
Early in 1973, through the efforts of Governor Cecil Andrus of Idaho and
Governor Calvin Rampton of Utah, the Bear Lake Regional Commission was
formed with representatives from local governments and states. Upon
formation, goals and objectives were formulated by the Commissioners to
provide long-term direction and guidance in addressing the needs and
problems of the Bear Lake area, and to preserve and promote Bear Lake’s
environment and the Bear Lake Basin resources.
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