WATER QUALITY IMPROVEMENT
The Utah Lake Restoration Project will transform Utah Lake from its current cloudy and nutrient-polluted state to a cleaner, healthier body of water.
A SUSTAINABLE ECOSYSTEM
The project will create a sustainable ecosystem with consistent water quality by reducing high nutrient inflows that lead to overgrowth and muddiness; removing invasive plants and fish; and restoring native plant populations and biodiversity.
WHY IS THE WATER SO DIRTY, ANYWAY?
As a result of excessive nutrients being introduced through agriculture and wastewater, harmful algal blooms have thrived in the lake for decades, leading to dangerously polluted water. This toxicity occurs due to frequent resuspension of nutrient-dense sediments on the lake floor. The water has become so dirty and full of algae that health advisories have frequently been put in place during prime recreation months.
A CLEAR PATH TOWARD CLEAN WATER
We have a plan. Dredging and deepening the lake is one major way we will ensure the beneficial use of nutrient-loaded sediments. We can also reduce wave force on the lake bottom by 500%, which will go a long way in halting harmful sediment resuspension. This will allow native aquatic plants to thrive again, while dramatically improving water quality and clarity.
THERE’S EVEN MORE WE CAN DO
The project will also implement and fund the following restoration efforts:
- Upgrading wastewater treatment facilities.
- Increasing the ability to effectively capture, retain, and treat stormwater.
- Installing biofilters to clean lake water and improve circulation.
- Improving oxygenation of lake water with aeration systems as well as littoral and emergent zone plant restoration to anchor the lake bottom
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.
