HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- Due to drought conditions in Utah, the Hill AFB swimming pool will not open for the 2022 season.
“Closing the pool this year is a financially and environmentally responsible action,” said Timothy Stone, 75th Civil Engineer Group deputy director.
The free splash pad at Centennial Park, which was designed so all "splashed" water can be collected and recycled, will not be closed. It will be open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. beginning May 30.
According to the Utah Division of Natural Resources, Utah has been in drought eight of the last 10 years. Poor snowpack and extremely low runoff over the last several years, has forced significant water restrictions on Hill and many of its surrounding communities.
A nationwide lifeguard shortage and a cost in dollars and man-hours in maintaining the pool also weighed in the decision.
Local communities surrounding the base have numerous summer swimming options.
The Clearfield Aquatic and Fitness Center offers a kid's zone, slide, lap pool and indoors and outdoor splash pads.
Layton City Surf n' Swim has a large pool with a wave simulator, as well as lap swim, water aerobics and other programs.
Roy Aquatic Center, an outdoor water park, will be opening for the 2022 season on May 28.
The Roy Recreation Complex has an indoor lap pool.
Cherry Hill Water Park in Kaysville offers family fun activities in addition to the water park and also offers campsites.
Lagoon Amusement Park in Farmington has a water park portion known as “Lagoon-A-Beach.”
To learn more about the water restrictions at Hill, visit https://www.hill.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3004756/extreme-drought-conditions-force-water-restrictions-at-hill-afb/.