Willard Bay State Park has issued an algae advisory for The Pond, according to a notice posted to the state parks website. While the advisory is in effect, the North and South Marinas and various campgrounds remain open to the public.
According to the undated notice, boat ramps at the North and South Marinas are open, though visitors must launch at their own risk. Current water temperatures for both Willard Bay and Willard Peak Pond are reported at 61 degrees Fahrenheit. The water level is noted at 49 percent. For those utilizing the marinas, the North and South Marinas are open for day-use, and water surfaces in the North Marina, South Marina, Bay, and South Inlet are all reported as open water.
The park's campgrounds, including Cottonwood, Willow Creek, and South Marina, are currently open. Officials noted that flushable bathrooms and showers are open in all campgrounds. For non-reserved camping, the park operates on a first-come, first-serve basis after 3 p.m. on the day of arrival. The park management includes Park Manager Benjamin Meraz and Assistant Park Manager Kandi Burden.
Fishing activities are available with recent reports indicating various species presence, including yellow perch, crappie, channel catfish, and walleye. The source notes that one walleye may be over 24 inches. For those fishing, the park advises that possession of commercially sold and preserved gizzard shad is allowed, but the possession of gizzard shad, whether dead or alive, is otherwise unlawful. Visitors are also reminded to wear life jackets and to be aware that boat launching is at the owner's risk.
The park is open for day-use from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. The air quality was reported as moderate. For more information regarding fishing hotspots, the Utah Wildlife website is available.
For inquiries, the park office can be reached at 435-734-9494 during office hours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The North Entrance Gate and South Entrance Gate can be reached at 801-782-2321 and 801-388-1321, respectively.