ECOSYSTEM
RESTORATION
The Utah Lake Restoration Project will create a healthy ecosystem for the lake by restoring aquatic plant communities, native fish, wildlife, and migratory bird species.
FISH, AMPHIBIANS, AND INVERTEBRATES
We plan to build a fish hatchery to re-establish a healthy fishery that is compatible with June sucker recovery. We will also revitalize native aquatic plants, zooplankton, and other invertebrates. These efforts will help control carp and other invasive, undesirable fish in the lake; improve dissolved oxygen levels; and restore shallow water and shoreline habitats that provide food, protection, and spawning areas for native species.
AQUATIC PLANT COMMUNITIES
As part of the initial shoreline restoration, we will re-establish important plants in these zones. Island creation and increasing the depth of the lake will reduce wave action on the lake and protect these plants from being uprooted during normal wind and wave events. It will also help to restore near shore plant communities by protecting shorelines from wave erosion and ice floes.
TERRESTRIAL WILDLIFE
Many wildlife species depend on fish, amphibians, and other aquatic species for food. We will help control invasive and predatory fish and restore near-shore wetland plant communities that provide essential habitat and food for terrestrial wildlife. Water quality improvements will also promote the health and abundance of fish and other species on which native wildlife depend. Thousands of additional acres of habitat will be established for avian and terrestrial wildlife on islands.
MIGRATORY BIRDS
Utah Lake lies along the eastern edge of the Pacific Flyway, one of the most important habitats for migratory bird species. Waterfowl, wading birds, and shorebirds depend on aquatic invertebrates, fish, amphibians, and native plants for food. The project will create protective habitats for these birds and other wildlife by improving water quality and controlling invasive plant and animal species.
Fixing a Dysfunctional Ecosystem
For the past 150 years, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other waste solids have been introduced into Utah Lake. This nutrient pollution has led to toxic algal blooms and other challenges. Populations of native fish species have been decimated, while invasive plant and animal species have been introduced into the ecosystem. These and other issues must be addressed for the lake to return to its natural, healthy state.
Disclaimer: The numbers presented on this site are based on conceptual plans and preliminary modeling. Numbers are subject to change as additional data, engineering, modeling, and modifications to the plan result from the permitting process led by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
DRIVEN BY SCIENCE.
POWERED BY PASSION.
We’re working with world-class scientists and engineers to save Utah Lake after more than 150 years of degradation. Our plans are informed by proven technology and data to ensure a responsible, sustainable path forward for the lake and surrounding area. Learn all about the partnerships, studies, and assessments that are driving this project from concept to reality.
