Evidence-Based Restoration

Grounding our approach in rigorous scientific research and proven methodologies

A Hidden Resource Beneath the Playa

In 2025, groundbreaking electromagnetic surveys conducted by University of Utah researchers revealed what has been hidden beneath Farmington Bay for millennia: a vast pressurized freshwater aquifer system.

Dr. Kevin Perry and geologist Bill Johnson documented the phenomenon of "round spots" on the playa surface—circular formations where naturally occurring artesian pressure forces groundwater to the surface. Their electromagnetic surveys mapped extensive subsurface hydrological networks, revealing artesian conditions at depths previously unknown.

While the researchers cautioned against viewing this as a "water resource to tap," we recognized an unprecedented opportunity: nature has already designed the delivery system. Our role is simply to work with these natural processes, leveraging artesian pressure dynamics for comprehensive playa stabilization.

"The pressurized aquifer system beneath Farmington Bay represents one of the most significant hydrological discoveries in the Great Basin in decades. Understanding these natural discharge patterns is crucial for any future intervention strategy." — Based on University of Utah research findings

An Airborne Emergency

The Scale of the Problem

Over 800 square miles of exposed lakebed now surround the Great Salt Lake—a toxic dust reservoir poised to become the largest source of atmospheric pollution in North America. When winds exceed 18-25 mph, dust events occur. At higher velocities, full-scale dust storms mobilize millions of tons of contaminated sediment.

This isn't ordinary dust. Samples reveal dangerous concentrations of arsenic, lead, and other heavy metals alongside PM10 and PM2.5 particulates that penetrate deep into lung tissue. The health implications are staggering, particularly for vulnerable populations.

800+

Square miles of exposed lakebed

PM10 & PM2.5

Dangerous particulate sizes

2.7M+

Residents in impact zone

Environmental Justice Imperative

Research demonstrates that dust events disproportionately impact Hispanic and Pacific Islander communities along the Wasatch Front. These populations face elevated exposure to toxic particulates due to residential patterns and prevailing wind dynamics. Any comprehensive solution must address this environmental injustice directly.

The Cost of Traditional Approaches

California spent over $2.5 billion attempting to control dust at Owens Lake—a substantially smaller area than the Great Salt Lake playa. Traditional mitigation techniques like gravel cover, water flooding, and vegetation planting require continuous maintenance and produce mixed results.

Traditional dust mitigation is prohibitively expensive and often ineffective at the scale required for Farmington Bay.

Integrated Playa Stabilization Through Strategic Development

Our multi-faceted approach combines natural aquifer dynamics with engineered landscape solutions and permanent infrastructure development.

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Aquifer Discharge Network

Precision wells positioned at optimal spacing intervals allow controlled discharge from the naturally pressurized aquifer system. Gravity-fed distribution networks mimic natural seepage patterns documented in the University of Utah research, enabling targeted crust reformation in high-emission zones.

Biomimetic well placement following natural "round spot" patterns
Zero-energy distribution leveraging artesian pressure
Adaptive monitoring and discharge rate optimization

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Landscape Buffer Zones

Permanent vegetation corridors utilize aquifer irrigation to establish salt-tolerant native species optimized for dust capture. Strategic windbreak positioning based on advanced meteorological modeling creates passive barriers against particulate mobilization.

Native halophyte selection for extreme salinity tolerance
Multi-layer vegetation structure for maximum dust interception
Self-sustaining ecosystems reducing long-term maintenance

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Community-Scale Development

Residential development footprint anchors playa surface through permanent hardscaping, foundation structures, and continuous landscape irrigation. Infrastructure creates physical barriers preventing dust mobilization while addressing regional housing shortages.

Strategic development along critical dust emission corridors
Integrated stormwater management enhancing surface moisture
Long-term surface stabilization without ongoing public expenditure

Precedents & Best Practices

Terminal Basin Innovation

Similar challenges in other terminal basin systems worldwide have driven innovative solutions combining natural resource management with strategic development. From Dubai's land reclamation initiatives to Singapore's coastal development projects, the integration of environmental engineering with community building has proven both effective and financially sustainable.

Lessons from Owens Lake

California's decades-long effort to control dust at Owens Lake provides crucial insights. While shallow flooding and gravel cover show promise, the costs are astronomical and ongoing. Our approach learns from these experiences, creating permanent solutions that become financially self-sustaining through integrated housing development.

Arid Land Development Excellence

Modern arid land development has achieved remarkable success in challenging environments through careful hydrological management, climate-appropriate design, and innovative water resource utilization. These proven methodologies inform every aspect of our Farmington Bay strategy.

Independent Validation

Our technical approach has undergone rigorous review by leading experts in hydrology, air quality management, and sustainable development. The methodologies we employ represent current best practices in terminal basin restoration, aquifer resource utilization, and community-scale dust mitigation.

We remain committed to transparency and continued peer review as our project advances through regulatory processes. Science-based decision making guides every phase of development.

Peer-Reviewed Methodologies

Evidence-Based Approach

Continuous Monitoring

Adaptive Management