Riverscape Restoration Volunteer Event:
Build Beaver Dam Analogs at Mill D North

September 12, 2026 9am-3pm

Volunteers at a Riverscape Restoration day. Photo: Sierra Hastings.

Join Sageland Collaborative, Trout Unlimited, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, SLC Public Utilities, and the U.S. Forest Service to build beaver dam analogs (BDAs) in Big Cottonwood Canyon! These volunteer events are a fun opportunity to cool off in the late summer heat while making an positive impact on Utah’s waterways.

All ages are welcome, but projects are not suited for children under 10 years old. Volunteers under 18 years old require a guardian’s signature and those under 15 years old must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

When: Saturday, September 12th from 9am-3pm
Where: Mill D North in Big Cottonwood Canyon, Salt Lake City, UT (specific meetup details will be shared in a confirmation email following signup).

The project site is approximately a 35 minute drive from the Salt Lake City area. There are pit toilets available at the trailhead, but no potable water, and limited cell service. Please note that this project is taking place in a protected watershed — dogs are not allowed on site, and swimming/wading in lakes or streams in the Canyon is prohibited.

What to expect: We will be building beaver dam analogs (BDAs) and other low-tech restoration structures in the stream. We will provide all tools and instruction. To access the project site, we will be hiking up the Mill D North Fork trail (2 miles with 1,500 ft elevation gain) with tools and gear. Projects typically involve walking over uneven surfaces. Tasks may involve wading in streams, carrying materials (fence posts, branches, rocks, mud), and using hand tools (clippers, loppers, hammers, shovels.)

Check out our short video that demonstrates what a typical Riverscape Restoration volunteer day looks like!

What we'll provide: 

  • A high-quality, fun, and SAFE volunteer experience

  • Extra water, snacks, sunscreen & bug spray

  • Extra safety equipment (work gloves, safety glasses), and a first aid kit

  • Muck boots/waders in various sizes (W's 5 - M's 13)

  • Opportunities to learn about riverscape restoration, science, and local flora and fauna while connecting with restoration practitioners and community members

  • Resume-building skills relevant to natural resources careers

Attendees are required to fill out Sageland Collaborative’s Volunteer Liability Form & Waiver in order to participate. Minors must have a guardian sign the waiver on their behalf.

For more information on what to expect, feel free to review our FAQ page. Reach out to Shane with any questions. Find more information about the science around Riverscape Restoration!

Please RSVP below to register:

Due to limited space, we are restricted to 30 guests, so we kindly ask that each attendee RSVP separately.