Council asks region to return with comprehensive plan for Jenkins Flat Reservoir dredging

Central Region sport-fish biologist Tyler Robinson presented an urgent request to restore Jenkins Flat Reservoir, which has accumulated an estimated 18,000 cubic yards of sediment since major post-fire runoff. Early cost estimates from five years ago have risen because the Forest Service’s regulations (visual-byway constraints) prevent leaving sediment on-site; that pushed a prior $80,000 estimate to about $376,000 because sediment must be hauled 10–15 miles to a gravel pit.

Council members raised a series of objections: several argued that dredging without upstream stream-stabilization would only postpone recurrence, others asked why the Forest Service had not managed sediment on its own lands, and still others suggested partnering to find nearer disposal or re-use options (roadbase) to lower costs. One member characterized dredging alone as incomplete without a watershed-level sediment management plan.

After extended discussion, Drew moved and Angie seconded a motion asking the region and partners to return with a more comprehensive approach—explicitly addressing upstream sediment sources and clarifying Forest Service commitments—rather than funding the current dredging scope. The motion passed by voice vote.

Next steps: the region will work with the Forest Service and Juab County road crews to evaluate nearby disposal options, draft a watershed-scale sediment/stabilization plan, and return with a revised proposal that integrates upstream restoration and clearer partner roles.