Tag Archive: salt lake valley

Snowy Winter Irrigation Canal – Salt Lake Valley – West Jordan – Utah

The Salt Lake Valley canal system is an extensive network of canals, ditches, and waterways built to support irrigation, agriculture, and urban water needs in the Salt Lake Valley, Utah. Dating back to the mid-19th century, this system was initiated by Mormon pioneers, who constructed the first canals shortly after their arrival in 1847. Faced with an arid climate, the settlers relied on these waterways to divert water from nearby rivers, such as the Jordan River and its tributaries, to irrigate crops and sustain their growing communities.

Over time, the canal system expanded to include major canals like the Jordan & Salt Lake City Canal, Utah & Salt Lake Canal, and others, forming a vital backbone for water distribution throughout the valley. The canals not only enabled agricultural development but also facilitated the growth of urban areas by supplying water for industry and residents. Today, while much of the original system is still in use, it has been adapted to meet modern demands, including stormwater management and secondary water supply. Conservation efforts aim to balance the system’s historical significance with its ongoing utility, ensuring it continues to serve as a crucial resource for the Salt Lake Valley.