SHIPLER COLLECTION, UTAH STATE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
“The Hardest Worked River In The World”: The 1962 Bear River Project, Utah and Idaho By ROBERT PARSON
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rising on the north slope of the Uinta Mountains in northeastern Utah, Bear River travels five hundred miles through three states and ten counties in Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho. The river’s route traverses from mountain slopes, through several valleys, deep canyons and gorges before terminating at the Great Salt Lake, only ninety miles from where it begins.This unique geological and geographical mix, as well as interstate politics have complicated efforts to fully harness its waters. Most early development occurred on the river’s tributaries. Pioneer settlers began Oregon Short Line Railroad traveldamming and diverting these for irrigation ing through Bear River Canyon, and manufacture in Wyoming, Utah, and circa 1913.
Robert Parson is the university archivist for Utah State University. He wishes to thank John Walters for his insightful suggestions.
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