Old Provo Channel Dam Taking Shape

Significant progress is being made on the final construction of the small dam at the downstream end of the Old Provo Channel, near Utah Lake State Park. Large equipment and concrete materials arrived on site allowing the Provo River Delta construction crew to install the primary dam features, which will aid in managing the channel’s water level.

Remaining work at the site includes removing bypass pipes and temporary dams (coffer dams) that have been in place the past couple years, filling and grading the area, and constructing a portage path to allow kayakers, paddleboarders, and others to move around the dam. Afterward, crews will move on to installing two non-motorized boat launches on the Old Provo Channel. Fishing platforms are also planned for construction between the two boat launches. Bids to construct these features are expected mid-October, after which a contract can be awarded and a construction schedule established. Please note, our construction schedule this year has experienced setbacks and is unfortunately subject to further delays, please check back for updates.

Delta Hunting Boundaries Reminder

We want to remind Delta users that the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) manages the Provo River Delta partially as a Wildlife Management Area, open to fishing and waterfowl hunting during open season in designated areas. Visitors will find many large, easy-to-spot signs that identify the hunt area boundaries within the delta, as well as multiple maps and signs along the trails to serve as a reminder that hunting is only allowed in specific areas. As shown in the accompanying photo, large signs identify the delta’s hunting area with green shading and the no shooting area with red stripes.

The No Shooting Area (safety zone) exists to ensure the safety of those in the delta, nearby Provo High School, and adjacent private properties. Respecting the safety zone and private property boundaries will help ensure the future of hunting on the delta. Hunters, anglers and boaters should also be aware of pertinent hunting and fishing regulations and that only nonmotorized boats are allowed in the delta. If you have questions about delta’s wildlife management area, contact UDWR’s Central Region office at 801-491-5678.

From Classroom To Conservation

Last spring we were happy to welcome two AmeriCorps Individual Placements (IPs) to our team for the summer season. Fresh out of environmental programs at local universities, Caroline Johnston and Lillian Higginbotham jumped right in—applying knowledge they gained in the classroom to make a real-world impact at the Provo River Delta. Armed with determination (and a couple shovels), they took on invasive plant species like Tamarisk, Russian Olive, and thistle, clearing the way for native plants to reclaim their habitat. They also led several school field trips, bringing the story of delta restoration and June Sucker recovery to life for curious students. One highlight was rallying sixth graders for a day of service - planting native species, removing thistle, and cleaning up litter - proving that restoration is a team effort, no matter your age.

We were also fortunate to partner with several outstanding Utah Conservation Corps crews through Utah State University. Their countless hours of hard labor helped transform the delta into a healthier place for both wildlife and people. We’re proud to continue our participation in the AmeriCorps Individual Placement program next summer, which will mark our fifth year of hosting seasonal IPs.

How Did We Get Here?

Review past years of project construction and see how far we’ve come!