June 2025 | Vol. 25 Iss. 6
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Sandy opens a wetland oasis near Grandpa’s Pond By Peri Kinder | peri.k@thecityjournals.com
“T
he first law of ecology is that everything is connected to everything else, and this principle resonates deeply within the context of a wetland, because they are not just bodies of water. They are vibrant ecosystems teeming with life,” said Sandy City Council Chair Aaron Dekeyzer at the ribbon-cutting ceremony that officially opened the new wetland area at Grandpa’s Pond (9600 S. 900 West). City officials, staff and VIPs gathered to celebrate the wetland’s relocation and expansion from Centennial Park, a small detention pond that was determined to be too low-functioning to be an effective wetland area. Geese were frequently seen sitting on the blacktop parking area of the nearby mall and crossing busy streets. The new wetland includes more than six acres of new and restored habitat that will serve as a natural domain for migratory birds, local plants and wildlife. Located near the urban fishery and the River Oaks Golf course, the wetland is intended to be a place where residents can enjoy the natural world while keeping the ecosystem safe. “This was a great answer to a problem that was developing near the South Town Mall, a great solution in expanding the enjoyment of life and the quality of life in Sandy, a great solution to balance environmental protection with our quality growth,” said Sandy Mayor Monica Zoltanski. “We are very dedicated as our city grows, as our city builds, to be very mindful of our environment.” Working with Bowen Collins & Associates, an engineering firm specializing in water and natural resource-related fields, city leaders decided on the area near Grandpa’s Pond, due to its proximity to the Jordan River. The site was cleared of invasive species, like Russian olive trees, to make way for the new wetland. Cattails, cottonwood trees, rushes and other marshy plants were introduced to enhance the area’s biodiversity. The wetland will attract herons, mallards, blackbirds, songbirds and migratory birds looking for a place to rest during their journey. Jamie Tsandes, vice president of administration at Bowen Collins, said the project was a finalization of work started in 2011 that included the realignment and beautification of Dry Creek. Once those projects were completed, officials turned their attention to relocating the wetland in 2018. The seven-year, $1.5-million project culminated on May 8 as the site was opened to the public. “Why are wetlands important?” Tsandes asked. “They slow flood waters, they create biodiversity and improve water quality.
The new wetland area near Grandpa’s Pond in Sandy (9600 S. 900 West) will serve as a safe habitat for migratory birds, native plants and wildlife, fish, frogs and other species. (Peri Kinder/City Journals)
Wetlands act as a filter, almost like the filter in your dryer. They capture particles before they are allowed to go back into the atmosphere and the wetlands do the same thing. Wetlands capture sediment, nutrients and pollutants from the surface water before it’s returned to the Jordan River.” The next step is maintaining the area, which takes time, money and dedication from the community and city leaders. The site is considered to be an intentional investment in the future, providing cleaner water and safe habitats. Dekeyzer said moving forward, there must be a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship to keep the wetland vibrant and a healthy part of the city’s ecosystem. “This field reminds us that our own mental well-being is deeply connected to being part of nature, and it is in the embrace of nature that we often find solace and clarity and connection,” he said. “Bird watchers and photographers can enjoy their hobby and we can all come to find peace in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives.” l
Sandy Mayor Monica Zoltanski speaks at the grand opening of the new wetland, a project that took seven years to complete. (Peri Kinder/ City Journals)