PIPE SPRING Cultures at a Crossroads: An Administrative History

Flood Diversion, Irrigation, and Pipelines

In an attempt to prevent future flood damage on the monument, changes were made in 1948 to the drainage wash and culverts. The work for flood diversion plans was outlined during the May 24, 1947, visit of Smith, Fagergren, Walker, and Cornell, referenced earlier. Zion officials returned in October to look over the wash and culvert situation.

Work undertaken in April and May 1948 consisted of modifying the wash and installing a new 36-inch culvert and headwalls near the campground area. Two of Heaton's brothers, Grant and Sterling Heaton, assisted with this work. The new flood diversion arrangement required a change in the irrigation pipeline to the campground and to the trees by the east entrance. The culvert headwalls and changes to the irrigation system were completed by mid-May.

In addition to relocating some irrigation pipeline, Heaton was frequently faced with the need to unclog existing pipelines. [1448] In June 1948 Heaton reported, "The 2-inch pipeline to the Indian ponds to the east of the monument are almost completely plugged up. Tried to find the stoppage but it will necessitate digging up several lengths of pipe to get it cleaned." [1449] In August the spring pipeline in the fort became clogged again with tree roots, requiring Heaton's attention. [1450] In September he was still working to unclog pipelines, only this time the stoppage was in the lines coming from the ponds. Heaton used a hydromatic air pump to clean out the pipeline on this occasion. From time to time, the custodian pondered ways he might improve the water system to reduce such demands on his time. In January 1948 he wrote, "Spent the day in digging up the 1-inch pipeline to water trough. Had to take up two lengths to get it cleaned out so decided to change it over to the main water line to campground area. Will have to get a few fittings to make the connections. Will do away with the 1-inch line from the spring and will take that line up this spring." [1451] In addition to clogged lines, at times Heaton had to dig up and replace pipelines that froze and burst over the previous winter. As with many maintenance chores, Heaton's sons were often recruited to help him with such jobs.