Wasatch County Public Works crews are engaged in year-round efforts to prepare for potential spring runoff flooding that can impact local communities. Following significant road washouts and debris issues during the 2022 snowstorm, officials have increased maintenance efforts such as clearing beaver dams and fallen trees to ensure proper water flow.
While the National Weather Service - Salt Lake City predicted minor runoff impacts for the current season, agency partners from Heber Valley recently participated in the first-ever spring runoff coordination meeting to coordinate preparedness.
Public Works crews undertake several specific tasks to manage waterways and reinforce vulnerable areas. This summer, teams realigned the right fork of Little Hobble Creek in Little Valley near Wallsburg to its original path. During the fall and winter months, crews fill an average of 3,000 sandbags and monitor basins for debris such as trees and tires.
During active runoff events, particularly in smaller communities like Daniel and Charleston, crews patrol known problem areas every two to three hours throughout the night because peak flows often occur between midnight and 4 a.m. In emergency situations, workers focus on stabilizing erosion and removing large trees.
The county's recovery efforts following major events include sediment removal, rebuilding, and stabilization. Following the 2023 runoff, Wasatch County received a Declaration of Emergency, which allowed for federal FEMA funding to reimburse costs for road repairs, debris removal, and personnel.
Completed repair projects have included roads at Little Valley, Big Pole, Little Pole, and Little Hobble Creek in Wallsburg, as well as Guardsman Pass. Additionally, the county has cleared sediment from the Lake Creek debris basin and is working on slope stabilization at Snake Creek using data collected by a geotechnical consultant.
Residents are encouraged to assist in flood prevention by keeping flood channels clear of yard waste, firewood, and tires. Officials also advise against building unauthorized structures like bridges across flood channels, as these can impede water flow.
Public Works Director Terry Ekker noted that because some channels remain dry for much of the year, the potential for flooding may not be immediately apparent to residents. The county advises working with officials before making improvements in flood-prone areas.
