2023 Flood Preparations
2022-2023 snowpack has been record breaking. With the snow melt anticipated in the spring, American Fork City is actively working to minimize the risks to our community by preparing for potential flooding. The snow melt runs through the American Fork River entering a weir system at the base of American Fork Canyon were it flows through American Fork City and discharges into Utah Lake.
The AF Sewer and Storm Water Division is charged with keeping the weir free of obstructions as well as ensuring snow melt makes its way down five miles of river from the golf course, through the city and down to Utah Lake. Crews walk the entire river at the end of winter and in spring to keep a close eye on the river during thaw season.
image: Weir at base of American Fork Canyon

Fast snow melt results in a surge of water which captures debris, clogging the river, especially at narrow underpasses. There are several choke points where branches and leaves tend to accumulate throughout the year and require continuous attention. The Sewer and Storm Water team both manually and with heavy equipment alleviate these flooding concerns.
image: American Fork River choke points in city limits

This winter, crews initiated removal of overgrown vegetation in the river path along 100 West by the boat harbor. Significant work was done clearing the channel, which had become very overgrown. Annual vegetation management will be used moving forward to restrict new trees from regrowing and taking over the channel again.
image: before river channel cleanup
image: after river channel cleanup

In February, our crews performed a river inspection at the base of American Fork Canyon where the AF River flows through the city to clear logs and debris that collect at the weir and basin before they enter the river. Along with environmental debris, trash and illegal dumping also cause obstructions. Household items such as couches and mattresses are often found in the river bed and require a coordinated effort to dispose of these items properly. This year, staff encountered enough bagged grass to fill a two-ton truck bed.
Due to the amazing efforts of the the Sewer and Storm Water Division team, there have been no major backups in the City and we are ready for the next rapid water event.
Active Preparations
Crews will stage k-rail/jersey barriers in problematic areas of the American Fork River to help divert water in the event of flooding. Sandbags will be provided on a limited basis for residents in April at the Public Work lot at 275 E 200 N. More information is forthcoming. Fire & Rescue, Police and Public Works Departments are coordinating efforts to ensure problematic areas are regularly monitored and an emergency response effort can be easily deployed. Many tips for residents to prepare themselves can be found at https://beready.utah.gov/Utah-hazards/flood/.