As summer reaches its peak, Eagle Mountain residents find themselves dealing with an unexpected pest problem: an explosion in the population of voles and mice.

These small rodents have a higher presence this year, and have made themselves known in lawns and gardens across the community.

According to Eagle Mountain City’s Wildlife Biologist Todd Black, the surge in rodent populations can be attributed to several factors.

“We are on the third or fourth generation of these pests for the season, which equates to thousands of little vermin running around in neighborhoods,” Black said. “Environmental conditions aligning perfectly can lead to such population explosions.”

The primary culprits in Eagle Mountain are the western deer mouse (Peromyscus sonoriensis) and the meadow vole or sagebrush vole (Microtus). While gophers are also present, they have not seen the same population boom this year.

Black explained that these rodents are R-selected species, characterized by rapid reproduction, short gestational periods, and minimal parental care.

The mice are relatively easy to catch using baited traps with a peanut butter-oatmeal mix, and both live traps and snap traps have proven effective. However, the biologist cautioned against relocating these pests due to legal restrictions and the potential for creating problems for others.

He also advised against using rodenticides because of their toxicity to other animals and concerns about bioaccumulation in raptors.

Voles, on the other hand, present a more challenging problem. These rodents create tunnels in lawns, particularly in Kentucky bluegrass, and are difficult to trap. Black recommended drowning them out or placing snap traps near their holes.

Additionally, natural repellents like castor oil, hot sauce, liquid garlic, or pepper can be used to encourage voles to vacate an area, though they may simply move to a different part of the yard or a neighbor’s property.

One innovative method is a pipe trap.

“Putting 10-inch PVC pieces of pipe, capped off at one end, in the paths of the vole. Once the voles get in, they can’t turn around and get out,” says Black.

Reflecting on the situation, Black says the current vole problem might not have existed 30 years ago. The changes in agricultural practices and urban development have contributed to the increase in rodent populations.

“This is not just a city problem; it’s a city-wide problem,” he emphasized. “If you plant Kentucky bluegrass and water it excessively, you’re unintentionally contributing to the problem.”

Residents are advised to reduce trash and debris, which can attract rodents, and to be mindful of their lawn care practices. The city is aware of its role in the problem and is working to implement mitigation measures to help reduce the rodent population.

The current situation in Eagle Mountain mirrors issues faced by neighboring areas. Significant increases in vole populations in nearby Saratoga Springs and Draper.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources suggested that the vole population boom could be due to favorable environmental conditions, ongoing construction and natural population cycles that peak every three to six years.

As Eagle Mountain grapples with the vole and mouse invasion, residents and city officials alike are working to find effective solutions to mitigate the problem and protect their properties from further damage.

As Utah prepares to celebrate Pioneer Day on Wednesday, July 24, residents of Eagle Mountain should be aware of several important updates and guidelines in place for the holiday.

City Hall Closure

In observance of Pioneer Day, Eagle Mountain City Hall will be closed on July 24. Regular business hours will resume on Thursday, July 25. This closure allows City employees and residents to honor the pioneers who played a crucial role in Utah’s history.

Fireworks Restrictions

With the holiday celebrations often featuring fireworks, it’s vital for residents to be informed about the City’s safety measures. The Eagle Mountain City Council has approved a Fireworks Restrictions Map for 2024, designed to enhance public safety and prevent wildfires. This map, provided by the Unified Fire Authority, highlights areas where fireworks are prohibited. Residents can check if their address falls within these restricted zones by using the online map tool.

Maintaining wildfire prevention and safety efforts is critical, especially during the dry summer months. Eagle Mountain has specific measures in place to mitigate fire risks in high-risk areas. Residents with questions about local restrictions are encouraged to contact the Unified Fire Authority for clarification. To report non-emergency illegal fireworks use, residents should call the Utah County Sheriff’s Office Eagle Mountain division.

Smith Ranch Park

Smith Ranch Park will not allow fireworks on July 24th. The park’s playground features a poured-in-place area that is not fire-safe and is capable of burning. As a precaution, the parking lot will be blocked off, and signs will be posted to remind residents of the fireworks prohibition.

Residents are reminded to clean up any fireworks debris at other park locations to maintain safety and cleanliness for all park visitors.

Pioneer Day Celebrations

Here’s where Eagle Mountain residents can explore Pioneer Day celebrations on Wednesday, July 24.

Ogden: Celebrate the state’s early settlers at Ogden’s annual Pioneer Days rodeo. The event at Ogden Pioneer Stadium opens its gates at 5:30 p.m. and concludes with a drone show. If you can’t make it on Pioneer Day, don’t worry—there’s a rodeo and drone show every night from July 19-24.

Orem: Fireworks are returning to University Place Mall. Attendees can start reserving their spots with chairs and blankets at 4 p.m., with live entertainment kicking off at 5 p.m. The fireworks show will begin at 9:30 p.m.

Provo: Provo is celebrating Pioneer Day with an Olympics announcement celebration at Peaks Ice Arena. Enjoy free ice skating starting at 6 p.m., a DJ, various activities, and a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

Salt Lake City: Salt Lake City pulls out all the stops for Pioneer Day. The Days of ’47 Parade begins at 9 a.m., followed by day-long activities at Liberty Park. The festivities will conclude with a drone show at the park at 10 p.m.

Spanish Fork: Fireworks will be launched from the sports park at approximately 10 p.m., with synchronized music playing at Field Eight.

After more than a year of anticipation and construction, Smith Ranch Park is set to fully open its gates to the public. On Thursday, July 25, from 6-9 p.m., residents and visitors are invited to celebrate the grand opening of the latest addition to Eagle Mountain’s community parks.

The event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, food trucks, a children’s entrepreneur market and the opportunity to explore every detail of the newly renovated park.

Construction on Smith Ranch Park began in May 2023, following the approval of an $8.1 million bid by the Eagle Mountain City Council. Public Works Director Brad Hickman expressed his enthusiasm for the project.

“This park will be another staple for residents and visitors,” says Hickman. “We want to showcase that this area protects its natural beauty while also providing amenities.”

Smith Ranch Park offers a variety of amenities catering to different interests and age groups.

Among its highlights are two multipurpose fields, pavilions for community gatherings, and a small amphitheater designed to host nature learning events. These features are intended to foster a sense of community and provide versatile spaces for recreation and education.

A distinctive aspect of the park’s design is its emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity.

“We are always thinking about how to include residents of all abilities and how we can best incorporate that into our final designs,” Hickman added.

The park includes amenities specifically tailored to accommodate adaptive needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the space.

In line with its commitment to conservation, Eagle Mountain City has partnered with the Eagle Mountain Wildlife Alliance to enhance the park’s educational value. Interpretive signage will be installed throughout the park, providing visitors with insights into the region’s rich wildlife and vegetation. This collaboration underscores the City’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the area while educating the public about its ecological significance.

The integration of native plants and a dedicated walking path along the Tickville Wash further highlights the City’s conservation efforts. These elements not only enhance the park’s aesthetic appeal but also contribute to the preservation of local flora and fauna.

“We want to partner with nature advocates because we want this park to last in its thoughtfulness and remain well-maintained over the years,” Hickman said.

The grand opening event promises to be a memorable occasion, bringing the community together to celebrate this new recreational space. Attendees will have the chance to enjoy a variety of activities, sample delicious offerings from local food trucks, and explore the park’s features. The children’s entrepreneur market will showcase the talents and creativity of young local entrepreneurs, adding a unique and engaging element to the festivities.

Smith Ranch Park represents a significant investment in the community, providing a space where residents and visitors can connect with nature, engage in recreational activities, and learn about the local environment.

Residents are encouraged to join the celebration on July 25.

Hadco will undertake essential irrigation line repairs on Pony Express Parkway and Wildcat Peak in Overland from Thursday, July 18, 2024, to Friday, July 26, 2024.

The repair work will commence daily at 8 a.m. and conclude at 4:30 p.m., with all lanes reopening after 4:30 p.m.

During this period, the left turn lane onto Wildcat Peak will remain closed to facilitate the repairs. Commuters are advised to plan their routes accordingly and expect minor delays. The project aims to enhance the irrigation system’s efficiency, ensuring better water management for the area. Eagle Mountain City appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as these necessary improvements are carried out.

The Eagle Mountain Public Library is rolling out a program that’s all about keeping our homes safe from radon.

The Radon Monitor Lending Program is here to help interested homeowners understand more about radon and make sure testing is taking place in homes regularly.

The aim of this program is to educate the community about the risks of radon while getting more people to test their homes for it.

Radon is a sneaky, radioactive gas that can come up from the ground into our homes and is a known cause of lung cancer. By lending out radon monitors, the library hopes to spread the word and keep the community healthy.

Testing for radon isn’t as simple as it might seem. Radon levels can change due to various factors like the weather, how well radon mitigation systems are working, barometric pressure, or even after home renovations. Traditional radon testing methods, such as charcoal kits or alpha tracks, only provide an average reading over a certain period. This can be misleading because radon levels can fluctuate a lot, being higher at night and lower during the day, or varying between seasons.

Continuous Radon Monitoring

That’s where continuous radon monitoring comes in handy. The library’s new program offers EcosenseⓇ radon monitors that collect data and give accurate, long-term radon results based on hourly readings. This way, users get a clear and ongoing picture of radon levels in their homes.

How to Borrow a Radon Monitor

The Eagle Mountain Public Library has 12 radon monitor kits ready for you to borrow. You can check them out for seven days with your library card. If all the monitors are checked out, don’t worry—you can place a hold on one, and the library will let you know when it’s your turn.

Why This Matters

This new program is set to make a big difference in Eagle Mountain by giving residents the tools and know-how to test their homes for radon accurately. More frequent and precise testing means we can better protect our homes and families from the dangers of radon.

For more details about the Radon Monitor Lending Program or to check out a device, visit the Eagle Mountain Public Library or check out their website.

Eagle Mountain City invites residents to the annual Summer Bash and Laser Show on July 27 from 4-10 p.m. at Cory Wride Memorial Park.

This family-friendly event promises an unforgettable day of fun, food and festivities for all ages.

Kick off the evening with a visit to the food trucks operating from 4-10 p.m. At 4 p.m., the kids can participate in a Patriotic Parade, showcasing their red, white and blue spirit. The Farmer’s Market, also starting at 4 p.m. and running until 8 p.m., will have handcrafted goods and unique items from local vendors for sale.

For those seeking more active fun, the bounce houses will be open from 4-8 p.m., providing hours of energetic entertainment. As the evening progresses, don’t miss the pie-eating contest at 7 p.m., where participants can compete for the title of the fastest pie eater in town.

The highlight of the night begins at 8:30 p.m. with a spectacular laser show featuring Trash Panda, promising a dazzling display that will captivate audiences of all ages.

Event Schedule:

• Food Trucks: 4-10 p.m.
• Kids Parade: 4 p.m.
• Farmer’s Market: 4-8 p.m.
• Bounce Houses: 4-8 p.m.
• Pie Eating Contest: 7 p.m.
• Trash Panda & Laser Show: 8:30 p.m.

This year’s Summer Bash and Laser Show at Cory Wride Park is set to be a memorable experience.  Be sure to bring your family and friends to join in the fun and make lasting summer memories.

Eagle Mountain City announces scheduled blast operations at the TM Crushing site on Mt. Airey Blvd. today between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Residents and businesses in the vicinity should be aware that this is a planned detonation. The City appreciates the community’s cooperation and understanding as these essential operations are conducted.

Eagle Mountain City is facing a critical water reduction impacting areas north of SR-73, otherwise known as Cory Wride Memorial Highway. It’s affecting around 1,200 homes. In response, the City is urgently asking residents in the affected area to refrain from watering their lawns through July 14.

The cooperation of the community is essential to achieving the best possible outcome. Without immediate action, homes in the impacted area could experience reduced water pressure and potential interruptions in water supply. Additionally, reduced water pressure can significantly impact the ability to maintain adequate fire protection, posing a potential safety risk.

To ensure compliance and protect the community’s water resources, the City is enforcing lawn watering restrictions during this period. Violations of these restrictions will be subject to penalties.

The City appreciates the understanding and cooperation of residents, emphasizing that conserving water now will help ensure that those in the impacted area have access to sufficient water for essential needs.

This water reduction period is a result of extreme weather patterns and demand for water that has outpaced even the most pessimistic forecasts. Despite these challenges, the City wants to assure residents that appropriate planning has taken place for population growth.

In line with the City’s infrastructure plans, work is actively underway to complete additional wells, booster pumps, and water lines to increase water supply and resilience against future reductions. Funding infrastructure improvements is a top priority to ensure that water reductions like this do not occur in the future.

Eagle Mountain City is committed to long-term solutions and is investing in sustainable water management practices to support the growing community.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed by visiting the Eagle Mountain City website and following the City’s official social media channels for updates. The City appreciates the community’s efforts to conserve water and work together to address this urgent issue.

The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) has begun improvements at the intersection of SR-73/Pioneer Crossing and SR-85 to enhance traffic flow and safety.

The work aims to alleviate congestion and improve efficiency for commuters and cyclists in the area.

Starting July 8, UDOT will begin implementing modifications, including the addition of a left turn lane, adjustments to existing pavement striping and the relocation of a bicycle lane.

These changes are expected to provide smoother transitions and reduce wait times for drivers at the intersection.

Work will be conducted from Monday to Friday, with Saturdays as needed and continue through the remainder of the summer. Standard working hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., although occasional night work may occur.

Impact on Commuters

During the construction period, residents and commuters can expect several temporary changes and potential inconveniences:

• Night-time closures of the intersection at SR-73 (Cory B. Wride), SR-145 (Pioneer Crossing), and SR-85 (Mountain View Corridor) may occur. Signage will provide directions and alternative routes.
• Lane shifts and temporary barricades will be in place while new lane striping is applied and allowed to dry.
• Temporary interruptions to the existing bike lane and pedestrian crossings may also occur.

To stay updated on the project, residents can subscribe to email updates by sending an email to mvcandpioneercrossing@utah.gov with “Updates” in the subject line. Additionally, information can be accessed through the project website at www.publicinput.com/s1107. For questions or concerns, the public information team can be reached at 888-704-4276 or via email at mvcandpioneercrossing@utah.gov. UDOT appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation as they work to enhance the infrastructure

Communication is vital to your family’s safety when disaster strikes. 

Make sure that your family’s emergency plan includes a communication plan, a plan for reuniting and a plan for what to do in different situations.  Create your own or download and print a plan template at www.ready.gov.

Create a Plan

Your communication plan should include contact information for family members and/or close friends in your community, as well as a nearby neighbor.  You should also establish an out-of-town contact.  You might also include contact information for schools, work, medical contacts and insurance information.

Designate Meeting Places

Choose a spot in your neighborhood where family members can gather if your home must quickly be evacuated.  Designate another location in the community to go to if family members are away from home and unable to gather at your neighborhood meeting place.  Include these on your plan.

Distribute Your Plan

Make copies of your plan and give it to everyone on your list, with instructions to keep the plan with them at all times, in a purse, wallet or backpack.  Place copies in your vehicles’ glove boxes and in your home and emergency kits.  Emphasize with everyone the need to contact one another as soon as it is safe and possible after a disaster strikes. 

Practice Your Plan

Once you have completed your plan, it’s time to practice! Practice texting and calling all contacts on your list. Practice gathering all family members at your designated meeting places and discuss how each person would get there.  After you practice, talk about how it went.  What worked well? What can be improved? What information, if any, needs to be updated?  If you do make updates, remember to print new copies of the plan for everyone.