Workshops to gather input on Emigration, Red Butte creeks

Two public workshops have been scheduled to gather input on the future of Red Butte and Emigration creeks, with stakeholders being asked if the waterways should simply be left alone or if restoration work should be done, and if so, how much.

The Riparian Corridor Study, coordinated by Salt Lake City Public Utilities, particularly seeks comments from the many private landowners with creeks that cross their property.

Residents can attend a workshop on Red Butte Creek from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday in the multi-purpose room of the Uintah Elementary School, 1571 E. 1300 South.

Another workshop seeking input on Emigration Creek is from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. May 21 at the Clayton Middle School cafeteria, 1471 S. 1800 East.

Bob Thompson, a member of the Jordan River Watershed Council, said the study, conducted by a private consulting firm, first seeks to do an overall assessment of the creeks themselves. "They've been more or less neglected for 50 to 75 years and treated more like a plumbing device than an ecosystem worthy of protection," he said.

The next goal is to determine if the creeks should remain a "big plumbing system," or if restoration efforts should be made.

Thompson said government agencies won't trounce into private backyards to doctor the creeks, but if homeowners need information on making improvements, that information could be developed into a restoration plan to offer guidance.

Both creeks originate in the Wasatch Mountains and eventually dump into the Jordan River.

While most of Red Butte Creek flows under the city — and through Red Butte Gardens — Emigration Creek can be found trickling through backyards in many areas.

E-MAIL: amyjoi@desnews.com