Original Channel Add-ons

SMALL DAM: A small dam is being placed in the downstream end of the original Provo River channel, near Utah Lake State Park, to support recreation through this reach. A preliminary structure has been constructed and the area has been “pre-loaded” with materials to consolidate soft soils and stabilize the dam’s foundation. The “pre-load” must be left to settle for up to one year before it can support a more substantial engineered dam structure. We’ve already seen four inches of settlement in just the past couple months. The small dam, revegetated banks and associated recreation features will be completed in 2025. In the meantime, please stay out of the signed and fenced area to protect it and your safety.

DIVERSION: a preliminary diversion structure was completed last March that diverted Provo River flow into the delta while continuing flows to the river’s original channel. Similar to the small dam, “pre-load” materials were installed, which required settlement to support a permanent diversion structure. The majority of work on that permanent diversion was recently completed, with two 36” water pipes installed that deliver a consistent flow of at least 10 cubic feet per second into the original channel. Crews are now focused on clean up and finishing touches around the area.

AERATION: Pilot-testing of aeration systems to improve water quality in the original Provo River channel began in late July 2023. One was a side-stream system that pulls water from the river, injects it with oxygen, and returns oxygenated water to the river. The other consisted of 16 diffusers placed along the riverbed between Lakeview Parkway and Lakeside RV campground. Both aeration systems are housed in new concrete buildings on the south side of the river. Pilot testing results completed last year showed aeration had improved water quality in the channel. The decision was made to continue running the diffusers through the winter and to install 20 additional diffusers this summer from Alligator Park to Utah State Park. We will continue system testing and water quality monitoring through 2024.

Closed to Keep You Safe!

2024 will be exciting as we plan to complete the majority of delta project features and open the Delta to the public late in the year. Until then the project area shown in our Trail Closure Map remains an active construction site, closed to public access. Trespass, especially with motorcycles and ATVs, impact the project and our schedule. For everyone’s safety, and to keep us on track for opening, please do not enter the area until it opens in late 2024.

TRAILS: This spring and summer we will be constructing a trail along the south boundary of the delta (see map above) that will connect the old Skipper Bay trail to the upcoming Delta Gateway Park, near Lakeshore Drive - creating an over three-mile loop! When it opens late this year, the trail will allow visitors to get close to the delta and enjoy the many project benefits. Additionally, later this summer, Utah County will mill and repave the existing Provo River Parkway Trail along the original channel from the Lakeshore Bridge Trailhead to Utah Lake State Park.