HERRIMAN, Utah (Thursday February 27, 2025) - Utah Royals FC is proud to announce that in conjunction with front-of-jersey partner America First Credit Union (AFCU) the organizations are making a donation of $10,000 to the Great Salt Lake Watershed Enhancement Trust, reaffirming the commitment to environmental sustainability and community resilience throughout the region.
“Our headquarters and an outsized number of our members are nestled on or near the shores of the Great Salt Lake,” said Tammy Gallegos, chief strategic engagement officer at America First Credit Union. “We will always work to find ways to support communities and causes that matter — from the Royals to the lake. It’s a cornerstone value of our organization.”
The Great Salt Lake Watershed Enhancement Trust was born out of necessity following historic declines in water levels, with 2022 marking the lowest recorded levels. In response, the Utah Legislature unanimously passed HB410 and the passage of an executive action secured $40 million to fund initiatives that enhance both water quantity and quality for the Great Salt Lake and its vital wetlands. The trust is now executing a comprehensive five-year strategy (2024–2028) aimed at tackling persistent challenges such as increasing salinity, invasive species, and diminishing wildlife habitats.
Key elements of the Trust’s Five-Year Strategy include:
- Stabilizing Wetlands and Building Resilience: Initiatives to stabilize wetlands critical for the lake’s hydrology, ensuring robust habitats for migratory birds, brine shrimp, and other wildlife.
- Expanding Habitat and Recreational Access: Projects focused on increasing habitat quality while enhancing community access to natural spaces, thereby strengthening local economies and public health.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Strengthening relationships with state and federal agencies, local governments, agricultural producers, and conservation groups to foster a unified approach toward water management.
- Adaptive Management: Using clear, quantifiable targets to guide ongoing conservation efforts, ensuring that each initiative contributes effectively to slowing the decline of this iconic ecosystem.
AFCU’s donation will help further these objectives, contributing to both immediate restoration projects and long-term planning efforts. Additional details about the trust’s strategy can be found on their official five-year strategy page, and interested community members are encouraged to learn more about how local contributions are making a significant impact through the Community Impact Funds hosted by the Community Foundation of Utah.
For more information about the Great Salt Lake Watershed Enhancement Trust and to view its comprehensive strategy, please visit:
About America First Credit Union
Now in its 85th year, America First Credit Union has grown from a single branch serving military personnel and federal employees into one of the strongest and most progressive credit unions in the country. The credit union is the largest in Utah, and has 115 locations across Arizona, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. It is also the fifth largest credit union in America with more than 1.4 million members, and the seventh largest in assets with more than $21 billion. America First Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution dedicated to building communities and helping members do more with their money. Learn more at americafirst.com.
About Utah Royals FC
Utah Royals FC is a professional soccer Club based in Sandy, Utah competing in the National Women’s Soccer League. Reformed in 2023, the Club aims to maintain a high level of excellence on and off the pitch. The Club’s home ground, America First Field, is known for its picturesque backdrop of the Wasatch Mountain Range and incredible home atmosphere created by the Club supporters. With a commitment to fielding a competitive team and developing young players, Utah Royals FC aims to become one of the gold standards in women’s soccer for years to come.
Media Contacts
Dave Nellis | 801.827.8606
America First Credit Union
