March 27, 2026
This week the Metropolitan Water District of Salt Lake City and Sandy officially began pilot testing for the Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) project. This is the culmination of more than five years of partnership between Hansen, Allen & Luce and Metro Water.
Metro Water first explored MAR in 2007 with preliminary studies evaluating recharge potential. In 2021 Metro Water engaged HAL to complete additional studies, which ultimately led to the design and construction of the Little Cottonwood Water Treatment Plant Aquifer Storage and Recovery Pilot Testing project.
The project features a deep injection well, multiple monitoring wells, and two surface infiltration basins. Construction began in spring 2023 and was completed in August 2025.
The kickoff launches a five‑year pilot program, and we are excited to continue supporting Metro Water throughout this phase. HAL will assist with water sampling, monitoring, and coordination with the Utah Division of Water Quality.
For more information about the project, visit Metro Water’s website.