WALLSBURG, Utah — The Provo River Water Users Association (PRWUA) has officially completed construction on the Deer Creek Intake Project, a critical infrastructure upgrade designed to maintain water quality, reliability, and long-term sustainability for more than 1.5 million Utahns who depend on water from Deer Creek Reservoir. This completion also officially reopens Sailboat Beach for public access.
Originally launched to update aging intake and guard gate systems at Deer Creek Dam, the project modernizes key components that were nearing the end of their useful life. The newly completed system strengthens operational efficiency, enhances water delivery reliability for downstream users, and extends the lifespan of the dam’s outlet works.
“This project represents a major investment in Utah’s water future,” said Jeff Budge, General Manager PRWUA. “By upgrading this critical infrastructure, we’re ensuring a safe, reliable water supply to Utahns while protecting one of the state’s most important resources.”
The Deer Creek intake system delivers a significant portion of drinking water, secondary irrigation, industrial, and agricultural water to roughly half of Utah’s population. A key feature of the project is the integration of advanced technology to prevent degradation by aquatic invasive species, including quagga mussels.
PRWUA also prioritized minimizing impacts during construction. The project was completed without draining the reservoir, allowing uninterrupted water delivery and continued recreational use throughout the three-year effort.
About the Provo River Water Users Association
The Provo River Water Users Association operates and maintains water infrastructure that serves communities across northern Utah County and Salt Lake County, delivering high-quality water to municipalities, agriculture, and industry while supporting long-term resource stewardship.