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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.

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Home Care In Lake Powell, UT

Home Care Lake Powell, UT

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Powell lake look out point gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Lake Powell, UT is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Lake Powell, UT

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“Emily and I (Nolan) are very grateful you all gave us the opportunity to work here. We had excellent experiences with management, caregivers, and our clients. We are thankful for your patience with our schedules and experience. We have learned a lot from being here, and we hope that our experiences from being here can be for our future benefit. We’d recommend working at ABC to our friends because of the great experiences we’ve had her. Emily and Nolan”

Emily W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have used this company for a few of my residents. They take such good care of their clients and do such a good job at taking the time with each and every one of them. They go above and beyond for their clients. I’d definitely recommend them!”

Kaylee N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I can’t say enough about Always Best Care. Henry and his staff was there from the start to help me find a sitter. I was in a position where I needed immediate help and they came through. His staff was caring and responsible. They helped me through a very difficult time.”

Judy R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“They were wonderful watching my husband why I had to work stayed right with him so he didn’t fall”

Susan T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I work with Always Best Care and it's been an amazing experience for me. I have learned so much about not only our patients we help, but the compassionate hard working people that are behind it all. I'm so grateful to work with such a caring, kind and helpful company they really do treat you like family❤. Not only are they giving back each day to patients who need them they are kind and caring to their employees as well. I love working for this company!”

Rachel J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Amazing staff! I am so glad to have found Always Best Care, it is a blessing. I live 300 miles away from my elderly parents and cannot always travel, it’s comforting to know that my parents are in great hands and that I don’t have to worry about them. The staff is well trained and the management goes above and beyond to meet your needs. I think of them as angels in disguise!”

Frenchy
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TESTIMONIALS

“I’m so glad we found Always Best Care to help our family take care of my grandpa! They have been amazing to work with. It’s such a relief to find a company that has open communication and cares about their clients and the clients family, too!”

Cass C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have used the services of Always Best Care since Sept. 2021. I have been very pleased with the attentive care they have given my husband. They have been flexible, accommodating, and gone the extra mile helping with my husband's needs. As an example, I was away for the day and I was called by the caregiver that my husband was not doing well. I came home and we decided to take him to the emergency room. The caregiver came with us and stayed at the hospital for hours. He was released with the medication he needed for his recovery and she helped bring him home and get him settled before she left. This was way into the night and passed her normal working hours. One of my requests before hiring on a Senior Service was that the caregivers enjoyed their job and enjoyed working with challenging patients. I use their service six days a week and every caregiver has been kind, compassionate, and hard working. I really have been pleased.”

shawn P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is amazing! All of the caregivers are professional and provide the best care. I have tried multiple different agencies in the area for help with my grandmother and none have been as attentive and helpful as ABC”

Haley S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great staff. Working around my schedule and always there when I need them.”

timeshare T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care has the most genuine team I’ve ever seen. They go above and beyond providing amazing care for the elderly with the help of trustworthy caregivers! They work as a team which makes the environment of there company so unique. Thank you always best care you have been amazing.”

Melissa M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care has the most genuine team I’ve ever seen. They go above and beyond providing amazing care for the elderly with the help of trustworthy caregivers! They work as a team which makes the environment of there company so unique. Thank you always best care you have been amazing.”

Anais G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“They really care about their clients and staff, fast turnaround and superb care”

St. G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The owners and staff at Always Best Care are so professional and friendly! With aging parents, it’s so nice to have the staff here to step in and help with caring for them. They are able to set everything up so quickly and provide the care when we need it! We are so happy we found out about them!!”

Melissa H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The staff are exceptional and truly have their patients best interest in mind. Grateful to have found a company that will care for my loved ones in a way I would myself. Thank you!!!”

Katy S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services have organized and caring faculty and staff. They genuinely care for their clients and want to help them in the best way possible. We are so happy with the services they provide.”

Anja K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great place to work. They are very helpful and also fast to respond to any questions that I have. Thank you ABC!”

Frances L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I'm so happy to have Always Best Care as a resource for us when we need more help with our aging parents. The office staff and owners are very professional and kind and they seem to be extremely careful in hiring staff that reflect the same values. I feel safe in trusting the caregivers. It's a huge relief to know that we have someone else who can help fill in when we can't be there or our parents just need more help than we can give.”

Amy N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great to work with, caring, compassionate and willing to work with different situations! They take time to understand needs to accommodate the best way to help! They are trustworthy, dependable and a business you can count on!!????”

M S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The caregivers and staff at Always Best Care of St George are top notch. I highly recommend them for in home senior care services!”

Carrie W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I'm so happy to have Always Best Care as a resource for us when we need more help with our aging parents. The office staff and owners are very professional and kind and they seem to be extremely careful in hiring staff that reflect the same values. I feel safe in trusting the caregivers. It's a huge relief to know that we have someone else who can help fill in when we can't be there or our parents just need more help than we can give.”

Amy N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Friendly and knowledgeable staff!”

David E.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Lake Powell, UT?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Lake Powell, UT

Types of Elderly Care in Lake Powell, UT

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Lake Powell, UT
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Lake Powell, UT
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Lake Powell, UT
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Prickly Pear Kitchen or visit Defiance House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Lake Powell, UT

Benefits of Home Care in Lake Powell, UT

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Lake Powell, UT, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Lake Powell, UT

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your UT's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Lake Powell, UT

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Lake Powell, UT understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Lake Powell, UT

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Lake Powell, UT

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Beehive Homes of Page - Elk Road
  • Horizon Home Health of Page
  • Beehive Homes Assisted Living
  • Zion's Way Home Health & Hospice
  • Lake Powell Medical Center
  • Home2 Suites by Hilton Page Lake Powell
Home Care Lake Powell, UT

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Lake Powell, UT

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Lake Powell, UT 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Lake Powell, UT

Latest News in Lake Powell, UT

Gov. Cox considers drought order for parts of Utah; Lake Powell faces below-normal runoff

SALT LAKE CITY — Gov. Spencer Cox says his office is mulling a drought-related emergency declaration for some parts of Utah amid concerns of drought and below-normal snowpack as this year's spring runoff begins."(It was) a pretty normal year for most of the state. ... However, I will say it was not a great year for all of the state," he said during his monthly news conference with Utah reporters."Southern Utah, especially southwestern Utah, was well below average, and they are seeing some elevated drought c...

SALT LAKE CITY — Gov. Spencer Cox says his office is mulling a drought-related emergency declaration for some parts of Utah amid concerns of drought and below-normal snowpack as this year's spring runoff begins.

"(It was) a pretty normal year for most of the state. ... However, I will say it was not a great year for all of the state," he said during his monthly news conference with Utah reporters.

"Southern Utah, especially southwestern Utah, was well below average, and they are seeing some elevated drought conditions there," Cox continued. "I would say, yes, there is a very real possibility — in fact, we're working on it right now — on an emergency declaration for a few counties in the southwest corner of our state."

Cox can issue an emergency declaration at any time, but it can only last 30 days without additional approval from the Utah Legislature. He hinted that the order could be issued within the next few weeks, as legislators will be back at Capitol Hill for a session in May.

The governor made those remarks as a late-season storm delivered a much-needed jolt to the state, but it might be too late to make much of a difference in southern Utah.

Most of Washington County remains in extreme drought, which extends into parts of Iron County, as well, per a U.S. Drought Monitor report released earlier in the day. Parts of those counties not in extreme drought remain in severe drought, which covers over one-third of the state. Other parts of western Utah, as well as parts of southeast Utah, are also among the driest in the state.

Those areas also didn't fare well when it came to snowpack collection, which accounts for about 95% of the state's water supply. Several basins ended meteorological winter on track for a record-low collection, and while late-season storms prevented that from happening, Utah's two southwesternmost basins peaked at 48% and 53% of their median averages, while four others nearby ranged from 65% to 79% of average.

Dry soil moisture levels alone can hinder snowmelt runoff efficiency, as more water in the snow goes toward recharging groundwater than the streams, creeks and rivers that feed Utah's lakes and reservoirs. But a poor snowpack on top of dry soil is about the worst-case scenario, according to Jordan Clayton, a hydrologist for the Conservation Service and supervisor of the Utah Snow Survey.

"That's a recipe for not getting much runoff. We are very concerned about that," he told KSL.com last week, pointing to those regions of the state.

It's why streamflow outlooks aren't promising in the region, especially for large-scale reservoirs like Lake Powell.

The country's second-largest reservoir remains at just 33% capacity, and U.S. Bureau of Reclamation officials don't expect it to gain as much as it did the past two years. They released an update this month saying that a runoff that's 71% of average is the "most probable" outcome this spring. Should that be the case, Lake Powell may only gain about 12 feet in additional elevation, peaking at about 3,570 feet elevation — about 17 feet below last year's high point.

LAKE POWELL WATER LEVELS: The official spring runoff forecast is in for Lake Powell! The Bureau of Reclamation states that the "most likely" outcome would be a 12 foot rise.This comes to us as no surprise as southern Utah just witnessed their worst snowpack in about ~40 years! pic.twitter.com/AgeaU2eist

Cox said the state is "always worried" about the Colorado River and Lake Powell, but he's more concerned about this winter's double-whammy in southwest Utah. He said it will likely hurt agricultural operations and some other industries, which is why his office is working with local officials and emergency agencies on the potential order.

It's unclear what will be included in the order, but he issued multiple orders when a severe drought gripped the state from mid-2020 through early 2023. The orders called on conservation efforts while opening up relief for those impacted most by the conditions.

Cox lauded many of the changes that governments have made in terms of water usage since then, especially in places like Washington County.

"They've gotten really serious about it after talking about it for years, and pleaded and asked," he said. "They've taken that on in big ways. So they're better prepared to take on a rough year like the one they're facing right now."

As for northern Utah's relatively average snowpack, the governor said there might be some "localized" issues when it comes to snowmelt flooding, which isn't uncommon. He doesn't expect any major risks, as was the case with the record snowpack collection two years ago.

Contributing: Bridger Beal-Cvetko

The Key Takeaways for this article were generated with the assistance of large language models and reviewed by our editorial team. The article, itself, is solely human-written.

Utah waterColorado RiverUtahSouthern UtahEnvironmentOutdoors

Carter Williams is a reporter for KSL.com. He covers Salt Lake City, statewide transportation issues, outdoors, the environment and weather. He is a graduate of Southern Utah University.

Cox considers emergency declaration as drought worsens in southern Utah and Lake Powell levels drop

With drought conditions worsening in southern Utah, Gov. Spencer Cox says he’s working on issuing an emergency declaration.Despite northern Utah seeing average snow this year, counties in the south are exceptionally dry. Cox said he’s currently working with local officials on the declaration, which could extend to a handful of counties in the southwestern corner of Utah that have seen a meager snowpack this winter.“We feel really good about where we are,” Cox said about water conditions on Thursday durin...

With drought conditions worsening in southern Utah, Gov. Spencer Cox says he’s working on issuing an emergency declaration.

Despite northern Utah seeing average snow this year, counties in the south are exceptionally dry. Cox said he’s currently working with local officials on the declaration, which could extend to a handful of counties in the southwestern corner of Utah that have seen a meager snowpack this winter.

“We feel really good about where we are,” Cox said about water conditions on Thursday during his monthly PBS Utah news conference, calling it a “pretty normal year for most of the state.”

“However, I will say it wasn’t a great year for all of the state. And southern Utah, especially southwestern Utah, was well below average and they are seeing some elevated drought conditions there. I would say, yes, there is a very real possibility; in fact, we’re working on it right now, of an emergency declaration,” the governor said.

Statewide, the snow water equivalent — which is basically the amount of water currently in the snowpack — is at about 78% of normal, according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service, or NRCS, which tracks the snowpack at sites around the state. Much of northern Utah is between that or higher, with Snowbird’s site at 96%, and a site in Big Cottonwood Canyon at 115%.

But many NRCS sites in southern Utah are below 50% of the median snow water equivalent, some with just 1%, even 0%. Much of Washington and Iron counties are currently in extreme drought, according to the Utah Division of Water Resources, while swaths of Beaver, Millard, Juab, Tooele, Uintah, Grand and San Juan counties are in severe drought.

The rest of the state is either in moderate drought or abnormally dry, except for a sliver of northwestern Box Elder County and the high elevation portions of Salt Lake, Utah, Morgan, Wasatch and Summit counties.

GET THE MORNING HEADLINES.

“The Drought Response Committee has been meeting more regularly to address concerns in drought-impacted areas,” said Candice Hasenyager, Utah Division of Water Resources director, in a statement Friday. “Many state agencies are coordinating their response to drought conditions that will likely intensify heading into summer.”

Hasenyager reminded Utahns to hold off on irrigation until “your landscape needs it.”

“Most of northern Utah can hold off on irrigating until Mother’s Day or until temperatures are in the mid-70s for several days,” she said.

The state’s reservoirs somewhat mirror the snowpack, with northern Utah looking good and southern Utah falling behind. In the north, the larger lakes and reservoirs — Strawberry, Bear Lake, Jordanelle, Flaming Gorge, Utah Lake, Deer Creek, Starvation and Pineview — are all above 75% capacity, with some hovering just below 100%.

But south of Price, all but five reservoirs — Huntington, Joes Valley, Otter Creek, Quail Creek and Sand Hollow — are above 75%. Some, like Yuba Reservoir or Panguitch Lake, are below 50%.

The outlook is particularly bad for the country’s second-largest reservoir, Lake Powell, which is federally controlled by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. As of Friday, the reservoir was at about 32% capacity.

According to the Utah Rivers Council, Lake Powell is about 70 feet above the minimum level for the Glen Canyon Dam to generate hydroelectric power. That level will continue to decline into the summer and fall, the council said, pointing to an “increasingly dire runoff future.”

“The countdown can start on Utah having to cut its portion of Colorado River water,” said Zach Frankel, executive director of the Utah Rivers Council. “Other states in the basin are putting odds on how soon that will happen and it’s definitely coming, alongside the shutdown of Glen Canyon hydropower.”

During the news conference on Thursday, Cox said he is “always worried about Lake Powell,” and has been for years, with the Colorado River plagued by drought and decreased flows.

“The good news is that Lake Powell, that water going into Powell does not come from the southwest side of the state,” said Cox, referring to the source of the Colorado River, which is in alpine areas of Colorado, Utah and Wyoming. “The water content in the mountains is a little bit better there.”

The governor can declare a state of emergency in response to natural disasters or public health threats. However, after tension brewed between the Legislature and former Utah Gov. Gary Herbert over his response to the COVID-19 pandemic, lawmakers passed a law in 2021 limiting emergency declarations to 30 days.

The Legislature could extend that emergency declaration if lawmakers pass a joint resolution.

Cox hinted that lawmakers could convene in May for a special session — so if he issues an emergency declaration this month, he’ll have the opportunity to work with legislators to extend the declaration, since it’s likely drought conditions will worsen during the spring and summer months.

Although he didn’t elaborate on what the order will entail, Cox issued executive orders related to drought in 2021 and 2022. Both orders allowed drought-effected communities and agricultural producers access to state and federal emergency resources.

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Boating in Utah in 2025? Take the mandatory course, pay fee and follow steps to prevent spread of aquatic invasive species

SALT LAKE CITY — The weather is warming up, and if you are starting to make plans to take the boat out to the lake, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources wants to remind you of a few requirements before you hit the water.No changes have been made to the state's aquatic invasive species boater requirements this year — all regulations remain the same as last year for anyone boating, paddleboarding or kayaking in Utah. Here are the main rules to be aware of:The boater registration payment can be made through the Utah...

SALT LAKE CITY — The weather is warming up, and if you are starting to make plans to take the boat out to the lake, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources wants to remind you of a few requirements before you hit the water.

No changes have been made to the state's aquatic invasive species boater requirements this year — all regulations remain the same as last year for anyone boating, paddleboarding or kayaking in Utah. Here are the main rules to be aware of:

The boater registration payment can be made through the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles, and the aquatic invasive species fee can be paid online. The fee is $20 per watercraft for residents, and $25 per watercraft for nonresidents. The annual mussel-aware boater course must be completed before the aquatic invasive species program vessel enrollment fee can be paid, and then a current-year boat decal will be mailed to you.

"The aquatic invasive species funds are used to help prevent quagga mussels from spreading from Lake Powell to other Utah waterbodies," Utah Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Aquatic Invasive Species Statewide Operations Lt. Bruce Johnson said. "These funds help pay for new dip tanks being installed around the state that more efficiently decontaminate boats and also pay for staff to help inspect and decontaminate boats in areas without dip tanks."

There are over 40 inspection stations located around Utah — with some located at boat launch ramps and others along highways — and five decontamination dip tanks. See a map of inspection and decontamination stations on the STD of the Sea website.

"We are so appreciative of all the boaters who are committed to doing their part to prevent the spread of quagga mussels and other aquatic invasive species in Utah," Johnson said.

Negative impacts of quagga mussels

Negative impacts of Eurasian watermilfoil

Eurasian watermilfoil is currently found in several waterbodies around Utah, including:

Boaters should be aware that, as of this year, the Lake Powell–Bullfrog Local Boater Program has been discontinued. Learn more about how to prevent the spread of quagga mussels and other aquatic invasive species on the STD of the Sea website.

Stranded mare finds new home at Kanab horse sanctuary following Lake Powell rescue

LAKE POWELL, Utah (KUTV) — A young mare named Solo, stranded alone on a beach along Lake Powell, has found a new home at a Kanab horse sanctuary following a rescue operation led by community members and Best Friends Animal Society staff.Solo, who had been stuck on the beach for over a year and a half, was discovered by locals who began feeding her after realizing she couldn’t escape the area. It was initially thought that she would be able to leave the beach on her own, but soon became clear that she needed assistance....

LAKE POWELL, Utah (KUTV) — A young mare named Solo, stranded alone on a beach along Lake Powell, has found a new home at a Kanab horse sanctuary following a rescue operation led by community members and Best Friends Animal Society staff.

Solo, who had been stuck on the beach for over a year and a half, was discovered by locals who began feeding her after realizing she couldn’t escape the area. It was initially thought that she would be able to leave the beach on her own, but soon became clear that she needed assistance.

The group that had been caring for Solo reached out to both the Navajo Nation and the National Park Service and received approval to attempt the rescue with help from Best Friends.

The rescue team was able to lead Solo into a pipe panel round pen. Once she was inside, they used a tranquilizer to sedate her. They then shrunk down the pen to a manageable size and created a chute leading to the waiting boat and trailer that would be used to transport Solo.

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After several hours, the team successfully loaded Solo onto the boat, guiding her safely across the lake to the trailer that would take her to her new home. Once on dry land, Solo was taken to Best Friends Animal Society’s Horse Haven.

"Solo has settled in very well and seems to be happy to have other horses around and all the food she wants,” said Jen, Horse Haven’s manager. “She's quite a sweet and sensible girl and we're excited to get to know her once she's ready.”

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