Should residents close to the lake be concerned with water tables rising with historic snowpack levels? The lake levels are low, but do we see this being an issue?

Based on the current and the historical levels of the lake, as well as utilizing the FEMA maps referenced in the previous question, the City expects the likelihood of flooding from Utah Lake will be very low. The areas by Utah Lake are considered wetlands, so this season’s snowmelt into the lake will help recharge and revitalize the natural elements of Utah Lake. Additionally, Vineyard City homes are at a considerably higher elevation from Utah Lake, reducing the likelihood of flooding from the lake into our homes. However, as we all know, nature is unpredictable and even though we plan for and engineer for all variables that we are able to see, the variables that we can’t see may arise. If that ever happens, then the City, County, and State Emergency Management Response has plans and resources that will ensure the safety of the residents. Our City’s Public Works staff consists of seasoned members who have lived in Utah County for many generations, been in some of Utah’s historic natural events, and responded to natural disasters from around the world to include earthquakes, hurricanes, and flooding. 

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1. Is Vineyard in a floodplain?
2. Will the groundwater table rise and flood homes close to the lake?
3. Can you explain groundwater levels and what that means for wells and basements?
4. Should residents close to the lake be concerned with water tables rising with historic snowpack levels? The lake levels are low, but do we see this being an issue?
5. What systems are in place that help with flood potential? How do detention ponds, land drains, underground channels, etc. mitigate flood potential?
6. Does Vineyard have sandbags available to residents?
7. From the city engineer standpoint, what level of concern might exist for the water table rising significantly, leading to flooding basements? Should our residents be concerned about this?
8. Is our ground water table generally low? Will it make a difference for people closer to the lake than those further from it?
9. How will those with septic tanks be affected by potential flooding?
10. Will we experience cracks or aging due to poorly maintained pipes being inundated with rising water?
11. How has the City staff prepared for potential flooding impacts?
12. Will our pavement suffer?
13. Will trees suffer as the soil becomes soupier, starving their roots of oxygen?
14. Is there anything Vineyard residents should know about ASRs?