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Jordan River Water Trail Vegetation Project Resumes This Winter 

Restoration along the Jordan River Water Trail resumed on January 19, continuing the work that was done between 2022 and 2024. This is a multi-year effort to restore the health, safety, and accessibility of the river corridor.  

After a productive fall season, vegetation maintenance will continue through the spring and summer until the current phase of the project is complete. The work will focus on removing invasive, dead, and overgrown vegetation, which is an important step toward improving both ecological conditions and public safety. Work will pause from April to July in order to comply with federal regulations protecting bird nesting season. In August, the work will continue. The team will also begin removing downed trees in the river. This work must be done during the summer months. 

In the fall, Diamond Tree Experts was contracted for a nine-week cleanup effort spanning several sections of the river. Crews worked from 1700 South River Park to 1300 South and 3 Creeks Confluence in Glendale, as well as an additional two blocks in Rose Park along Cornell Wetlands. 

The impact of their work was significant. More than 200 truckloads of debris were removed from the riverbanks, opening sight lines along the Jordan River Trail and reducing hazardous conditions caused by unmanaged vegetation. This work not only beautified the space for trail users but also improved safety by increasing visibility. 

Ecologically, the cleanup has already begun to make a difference. Removing invasive and unhealthy plant material created space for native vegetation to reestablish, supporting wildlife habitat and improving the long-term resilience of the river corridor. 

What’s Happening in 2026? 

Looking ahead, Public Land’s goal for 2026 is to complete vegetation maintenance along the remaining stretches of the Jordan River within city limits. Work began at 2100 South and progresses north week by week, ultimately finishing near the city’s northern boundary around near the Regional Athletic Complex (RAC). 

This next phase is estimated to take four to five months to complete, depending on conditions and site complexity. Once finished, the project will represent a comprehensive cleanup of the Jordan River’s riverbanks. The Public Lands Department is concurrently initiating planning of these newly cleared spaces including restoration planting projects, creating additional areas for activation, new paths, new benches, and planting desired tree species along the riparian corridor. 

A Collaborative Effort 

This project is being led by Trails & Natural Lands in partnership with several key agencies and divisions, including: 

• Urban Forestry Division from SLC Public Lands 

• Parks Division from SLC Public Lands 

• Utah Department of Natural Resources  

This collaboration ensures the work done is environmentally responsible and aligned with broader goals for the Jordan River corridor. 

Funding the Project 

Funding for the project was initially from the Trails & Natural Lands maintenance budget. That investment was successfully leveraged to secure additional support, including: 

• A $57,000 grant from the Jordan River Commission 

• A $666,000 grant from the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation 

These funds have made it possible to expand project progress along the river. 

The Jordan River Water Trail vegetation maintenance project represents a major investment in the health of the river and the experience of the community members who use it every day. By restoring natural systems, improving safety, and enhancing visibility along the trail, the project helps ensure the Jordan River remains a vibrant, welcoming space for recreation, wildlife, and future generations. 

More updates will be shared as work continues through the spring.