Island formation is a foundational element of the Utah Lake Restoration Project. Islands provide a place to sequester dredged material, help control wind and wave action, expand fish and wildlife habitat, and reduce evaporation. Three types of islands (estuary, recreation, and development) are used and each has a specific function. You can learn more about them below.

Estuary Islands

Estuary islands are designed to protect the shoreline from wind/wave events and spring ice-flows. The inner waterway between estuary islands and the lake’s shoreline provide a protected area for native fish and utilization by waterfowl for feeding, nesting, and brood rearing. Estuary islands also give light recreationists (canoes, kayaks, paddleboards) shelter during wind events and to provide spots for these non-powered recreationists entry around most of the Lake.

Recreation Islands

Recreation islands are sized and positioned to act as wind and wave breaks across a lake. Their arched configuration creates protected boating areas during storms and wind/wave events. Each recreation island is designed to provide a more diverse lake experience with docks, beaches, pavilions, overnight campgrounds, and cabins to support increased recreational opportunities.

Development Islands

Funding for Utah Lake Restoration Project conservation efforts comes from development islands. Without the development aspect, the conservation would not happen. The Utah Lake Restoration Project depends on conservation and development not only subsisting together, but in fact relying on each other to create the ideal balance between human activity and the natural environment