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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 Toquerville, UT

Home Care Toquerville, 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 Thomas Forsyth House 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 Toquerville, UT is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Toquerville, 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

“This is a great company to work for if you’re interested in a flexible schedule. Management is so supportive and will do what they can to make everyday at work a good day. They communicate effectively and quickly to ensure nothing is miscommunicated or misunderstood. Working here as been so rewarding and educational.”

Mckinlye G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care of Southern Ut is a great company. In November I will have worked with them for three years. I am a senior myself and absolutely love working with them. They always try to make sure the client and the caregiver have a good relationship with each other. They are family owned and genuinely care about both client and employees.”

Helen M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I've been with ABC nearly 3 years(in Feb). They have been gracious and kind whenever I have had to change my schedule or not be able to work a shift. they make me feel like family, and they strive to help the clients feel the same. we love our clients and caregivers and staff.”

TheXploringKay O.
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“I work for Always Best Care and it's amazing they really do care for their clients and they'll go the extra mile to meet their needs ! Not only that but they care for employees i love the flexibility they give us.”

Aly T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has definitely been a blessing to our little familys life. As an employer of ABC they have been amazing with flexibility in chosing my schedule so that not only am I able to work but also be home with my kids when I need to be. They are amazing and put their employees first. I love being a member of ABC team.”

Falelua A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“1. Stay active. Exercise may be the last thing you want to do when your arthritis hurts, but many studies show that physical activity is one of the best ways to improve your quality of life. 2. Eat a balanced diet. Studies show that a variety of nutrients may help ease arthritis symptoms. 3. Lose weight. Being overweight puts undue strain on weight-bearing joints such as your knees, spine, hips, ankles, and feet. 5. Use hot or cold packs. By increasing blood flow, hot compresses can ease pain and stiffness. 6. Keep pain under control. Over-the-counter medications can help ease arthritis pain. 7. Talk to your doctor about supplements and complementary medicine. Many supplements have been tested for the treatment of arthritis. 8. Try splints, braces, and other aids. Devices that support painful joints, such as splints, braces, and canes can help ease your discomfort and prevent injury. 9. Seek support. Living with arthritis isn’t easy. Finding other people that you can talk to and share ideas with can help. Check out arthritis support groups online or in your area. 10. Stay positive. Your mental outlook can have a big impact on how you feel, and how well you function. #SelfCare #Osteoarthritis #Arthritis #Disability #GoodHealth #PainRelief #SeniorCommunity #Caregiver #Caregiving #WECANHELP #OlderAdult #SeniorCare #SeniorLiving #SeniorServices #SeniorHousing #AlwaysBestCare #Exercise #SelfManaging #Tips”

Always B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has some of the friendliest staff. They are quick to learn & eager to assist. Great schedulers who are on top of managing the schedules & keeping their employees accountable. I sure appreciate all the help they give!”

AsAn
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TESTIMONIALS

“I can leave a long review if I wanted to . I can talk about always best cares credentials and talk about mine. But What’s the point of leaving a review if it sounds like everybody else’s. The bottom line is , that they are great at their jobs from the bottom to the top. They have a process and people in place . They keep accountability and are communicative . Ive represented many companies in the past and still do till this day contract with only the best.. If you feel you want to hear more about this company on a deeper level just lmk. Happy Healthy Safe”

Jay R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I like working for ABC because it works well with my busy nursing school schedule! I also like how I get to work on my own, but there are options to work with other CNAs for the care of some of the clients. It’s the best of both worlds! I’ve been with Always best care since 2021 and have thoroughly enjoyed working with the clients I work with!”

Olivia S.
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“Love always best care ❤️”

Breezy H.
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“Amazing business. Staff are helpful and kind.”

Margot K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is always best!!! Highly recommended! Brent listens and hears what we need for my 94 year old mom and matches caregivers accordingly. Sometimes, the schedule changes and he works to fill the needs immediately and always with a great attitude! The caregivers are compassionate. Again, I highly recommend Always Best Care.”

shell S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“They are seriously so amazing to work with and really care for their clients. I came to them with some pretty difficult challenges that I was not sure we could work with but they were able to make it happen and truly did more than I thought was even possible. I highly recommend them.”

Mandy M.
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“Love working for this company”

Christina P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Love them! Staff is always super sweet and easy to work with! Highly recommend.”

Olivia L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“As an employee of this company I could not ask for a better team to work with. They work with schedules, are understanding caring and all around amazing people. The clients are wonderful and have nothing but good things to say. They treat you as family and care from day one!”

Cassandra O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has provided caregivers for my mother and now my father for the last year. They always send the best people to take care of them and give me peace of mind when I have to be at work. I highly recommend them if you’re seeking care for anyone in need.”

Salle A.
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“Alway best care! They are so giving and caring to their staff and clients❤️❤️❤️”

Brianne W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I've been using ABC for about 2 1/2 years and have really met some wonderful people and great caregivers. I know they all work hard and are experienced and dependable which is important to me. At times I've needed a flexible schedule and they've been able to accommodate my needs and been very friendly about it. At times I've also had to ask these caregivers to do things for me outside of their job description and they've been very accommodating. Brent is also been great to follow up with phone calls and help adjust my schedule when needed. I do recommend this company.”

Jim J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The best home health company that I have ever worked for. Friendly office staff, great scheduler, and the kindest CNA’s and workers that I know.”

Jenny J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I work with Always Best Care and they're always flexible with my schedule. Everyone there is very nice and understanding and I enjoy working with ABC.”

Anna S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has been an amazing company to work for! They are flexible with my schedule being a single mom and I can tell they are always putting their clients and the individuals that they care for, the needs and their happiness above all else. I know they care for every individual that they have and they make sure their staff are the same way!”

Aubrey S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best is such an incredible company! They are so accommodating to all of the needs of their clients and do their best to help any way that they can. They are reliable and really seem to care. I would recommend Always Best to anyone looking for these kinds of services!”

Anni H.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Toquerville, 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 Toquerville, UT

Types of Elderly Care in Toquerville, 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 Toquerville, 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 Toquerville, 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 Toquerville 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 Toquerville, 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 Stage Coach Grille or visit Historic Stirling Home, 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 Toquerville, UT

Benefits of Home Care in Toquerville, 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 Toquerville, 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 Toquerville, 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 Toquerville, 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 Toquerville, 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 Toquerville, 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 Toquerville, 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 Hurricane
  • The Haven at Sky Mountain Independent and Assisted Living Community
  • Heritage Home Assisted Living
  • Sterling Court - An Elegant Assisted Living Community in Southern Utah
  • Beehive Homes of St George - Coral Canyon Bldg B
  • Autumn Park Assisted Living
Home Care Toquerville, 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 Toquerville, 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 Toquerville, 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 Toquerville, UT

Latest News in Toquerville, UT

Water managers break ground for Toquer Reservoir project

ST. GEORGE — Local, state and federal water managers, along with civic officials and others from across the county met in the middle of brush-covered field Tuesday morning near Toquerville to mark the groundbreaking on the long-planned Toquer Reservoir.A part of the overall Ash Creek Project, plans for the Toquer Reservoir have been in the works for 20 years and didn’t start to see significant headway ...

ST. GEORGE — Local, state and federal water managers, along with civic officials and others from across the county met in the middle of brush-covered field Tuesday morning near Toquerville to mark the groundbreaking on the long-planned Toquer Reservoir.

A part of the overall Ash Creek Project, plans for the Toquer Reservoir have been in the works for 20 years and didn’t start to see significant headway until 2019. The path for the new reservoir was cleared after some federal-level hurdles and multiple environmental studies related to the project ran their course.

“We’re really excited for the collaboration on this project,” Zach Renstrom, the water district’s general manager, said at the groundbreaking event. “We’ve had multiple entities help contribute funds to this project moving forward.”

A combined $15 million was granted for the Toquer Reservoir project from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s Small Storage Program, the Utah Division of Water Quality’s Southern Utah Reuse Program and Washington County.

“We’re grateful to provide a little bit of the funding,” Rick Baxter, area manager of the Bureau of Reclamation in Provo, told St. George News.

Reclamation gave the water district $4.7 million earlier this year. That money came from 2022’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Better known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, it gives the bureau $8.3 billion to put toward water projects over the next five years.

“What they’re (the water district) doing and what we’re doing is the same mission – to develop and protect water resources,” Baxter said.

Both Renstrom and Baxter shared comments prior to the ceremonial shoveling of the dirt for the groundbreaking. Victor Iverson of the Washington County Commission and Spencer Jones of the Utah Board of Water Resources made brief statements during the event.

The Toquer Reservoir is projected to have a capacity of 3,725 acre feet of water and cover 115 acres near Interstate 15 and state Route 17 (the road to leading to Toquerville from the highway). The reservoir’s dam will be 125 feet tall and 1,270 feet wide.

The overall Ash Creek Project encompasses the construction of an 18.8-mile pipeline from the Ash Creek Reservoir to the future site of the Toquer Reservoir. Originally estimated to be a $34 million project, the cost jumped to $94 million due to inflation.

The purpose of the project is to capture and secure water from the Ash Creek Reservoir near New Harmony that is otherwise reportedly being lost to seepage. That reservoir was built in the 1960s alongside I-15 and hasn’t worked as well as intended, Renstrom previously told St. George News.

While the nearly 19-mile Ash Creek Pipeline is designed to capture part of the surface run-off water that would otherwise be lost in the Ash Creek Reservoir, Renstrom said the reservoir will receive water from the Ash Creek water treatment plant that is currently being constructed.

The treatment plant will send treated sewer water to the reservoir where it will provide an alternate water source for the Toquerville Secondary Water System and preserve the high-quality water from the Toquerville Springs for potable uses.

“The water in this reservoir will be provided to farmers that are currently using a very high-quality water that we’d prefer to drink,” Renstrom said. “So we’re doing a swap with the farmers.”

Though it is being built in the Toquerville area, Renstrom added the reservoir will provide water directly to LaVerkin, Hurricane and Virgin. It will also free up system capacity so more water can be supplied to Washington City, St. George, Santa Clara and Ivins, he said.

The reservoir will take approximately two years to construct. Once complete, the water district anticipates a partnership with the Utah Division of State Parks to manage recreational opportunities, including non-motorized boating and camping.

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Descendants of Toquerville pioneer pay homage to Levi Savage with sculpture

TOQUERVILLE — When pioneers first started settling an area near Ash Creek in Southern Utah, they were befriended by Native Americans who called themselves Toqurat, or Toquit, ancestors of today’s Southern Utah Paiute tribe.Their leader, Chief Toquer, would give name to the town that is now known as Toquerville, founded in 1858.Descendants of one of those early settlers, Levi Savage, recently donated a statue of their relative more commonly known from the movie “17 Miracles,” which can be...

TOQUERVILLE — When pioneers first started settling an area near Ash Creek in Southern Utah, they were befriended by Native Americans who called themselves Toqurat, or Toquit, ancestors of today’s Southern Utah Paiute tribe.

Their leader, Chief Toquer, would give name to the town that is now known as Toquerville, founded in 1858.

Descendants of one of those early settlers, Levi Savage, recently donated a statue of their relative more commonly known from the movie “17 Miracles,” which can be seen at Toquerville’s city hall.

The movie is based on the Willie Handcart Company experiences from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints pioneers following a late-season start and a treacherous winter journey in 1856.

In 1858, Savage moved to Lehi and worked as a supplier for the U.S. Army at Camp Floyd. He helped colonize several towns in northern Utah, such as Lehi, Holden and Scipio.

In 1865, church President Brigham Young sent Savage to Kanab, where he built the first house by pioneer settlers. In 1866, Savage moved to Toquerville, started a farm, raised a family and contributed largely to the growth of Southern Utah for the last 45 years of his life.

“They traveled 23 miles to St. George on horseback frequently for church conferences, attending the temple, paying taxes, taking care of business and visiting the children in school,” according to the Washington County Historical Society. “Frequent company for meals and stopping overnight was a definite part of their lives.”

In 1885, at 65 years of age, Levi was arrested by U.S. Federal Marshals for “unlawful cohabitation.” He was fined $300, served six months in the Utah Territory Penitentiary and was released March 29, 1888.

Possibly one of his largest contributions to today’s society was his pen. Savage kept a diary for more than 50 years of his life, through one of the most told handcart stories in Mormon history, while helping establish new towns farm life until his death.

In the movie “17 Miracles,” Savage is portrayed by actor Jasen Wade, a graduate of Southern Utah University. Many of the stories told in the movie come from Savage’s personal diary.

The diaries have also given historians a glimpse into life in the western United States in a time before the country was united coast-to-coast.

Former Toquerville resident Rex Jensen said the statue of Levi Savage that has stood in front of city hall on Main Street was a gift to the city from descendants of the local legend.

Ed Smith and Dave Lyon, both residents of Las Vegas, proposed the idea, donated the funding and asked Jensen if he would make the arrangements.

“Dave is descended from Levi Savage and so is Ed Smith’s wife,” Jensen said. “They knew the family’s history and really felt the need to do something to honor their heritage.”

Originally planned to be constructed in the Toquerville Cemetery, plans were changed to have it constructed in front of city hall.

“The mayor, Justin Sip, made that happen,” Jensen said. “He wanted the sculpture right in the middle of town with all the other town monuments.”

Sip and approximately 50 town residents, roughly 30 descendants for Savage, attended the dedication in May 2023.

Southern Utah mason Randy Paul built the statue’s base out of steel, concrete and sandstone. Annette Whitaker Everett, who earned her degrees in art education from Brigham Young University, University of Utah and the Art Academy of Cincinnati, sculpted the bronze statue.

A statue of St. George resident Juanita Brooks is just one of many Everett has featured in Southern Utah.

The Sandman, a life-size monument dedicated to the volunteers of the floods of 2005 stands in St. George’s Town Square. And The Volunteer, a life-size monument honoring volunteer firemen, currently stands at the Santa Clara city offices.

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Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2023, all rights reserved.

Toquer Reservoir project granted nearly $5M in funding from federal agency

ST. GEORGE — A reservoir and pipeline project that has been in the works since 2019 received nearly $5 million from the federal government earlier this month as a part of overall funding for projects that promote water conservation and efficiency.The U.S. Department of the Interior announced in an April 6 press release that $20 million was being granted to four small surface and groundwater storage projects in California and Utah. While three of the projects are based in California, the fourth is the Ash Creek P...

ST. GEORGE — A reservoir and pipeline project that has been in the works since 2019 received nearly $5 million from the federal government earlier this month as a part of overall funding for projects that promote water conservation and efficiency.

The U.S. Department of the Interior announced in an April 6 press release that $20 million was being granted to four small surface and groundwater storage projects in California and Utah. While three of the projects are based in California, the fourth is the Ash Creek Project based in Southern Utah.

Money for the projects comes from 2022’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also commonly referred to as the “Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.” Money provided through the bill already has been applied to other projects in Southern Utah, such as the Pine Valley Priority Landscape Project.

While on the books for many years, movement on the Ash Creek Project didn’t begin till late 2019 when the Washington County Water Conservancy District announced initial work had been done with the Bureau of Land Management to move the project forward.

The Ash Creek Project encompasses the construction of an 18.8-mile pipeline from the Ash Creek Reservoir to the future site of the Toquer Reservoir. Originally estimated to be a $34 million project, it has jumped to $94 million due to inflation.

The purpose of the project is to capture and secure water from the Ash Creek Reservoir near New Harmony that is otherwise reportedly being lost to seepage. The reservoir was built in the 1960s alongside Interstate 15 and hasn’t worked as well as intended, Zach Renstrom, general manager of the water district, previously told St. George News.

The Toquer Reservoir, which is being built in the area of Anderson Junction, is designed to cover 115 acres and hold up to 3,600 acre-feet of water, making it a third of the size of Gunlock Reservoir. The reservoir will be filled with water from the nearly 19-mile Ash Creek Pipeline that is designed to capture part of the surface run-off water currently being lost at the Ash Creek Reservoir through seepage.

Currently, the pipeline and dam for the new reservoir are being built in phases, Karry Rathje, the water district’s communications and government affairs manager, told St. George News. Parts of the pipeline have already been bid on and are being lined up for construction to begin while other segments are set to be addressed in the near future.

It is anticipated that the ground will be broken for work on the dam in late summer or early fall of this year, with construction expected to take around two to three years.

“As communities across the West continue to face the impacts of ongoing drought, the Biden-Harris administration is making record investments to protect the stability and sustainability of the Colorado River System now and into the future,” Tommy Beaudreau, deputy secretary of the Department of the Interior, said in a press release. “By working together in close coordination with states, Tribes and other stakeholders, we can provide much needed relief for communities across the West that will have a lasting impact for generations.”

Overall, the infrastructure law provides $8.3 billion for Bureau of Reclamation water infrastructure projects over the next five years. Additionally, money from the Inflation Reduction Act provides another $4.6 billion toward addressing the West’s ongoing drought.

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2023, all rights reserved.

‘We are beyond blessed’; 9 families break ground on new homes as part of Self-Help housing program

TOQUERVILLE — Construction hasn’t started yet, but the children of nine families who will soon have a new home couldn’t wait to play in the new Peachtree Circle in Toquerville, the site of a group of new residences to be built with a combination of sweat equity and teamwork.During a groundbreaking ceremony held May 29, several of the group’s children were already taking advantage of the fresh pavement with bicycles and scooters, Self-Help Homes spokesperson Julie Lindquist said in a press relea...

TOQUERVILLE — Construction hasn’t started yet, but the children of nine families who will soon have a new home couldn’t wait to play in the new Peachtree Circle in Toquerville, the site of a group of new residences to be built with a combination of sweat equity and teamwork.

During a groundbreaking ceremony held May 29, several of the group’s children were already taking advantage of the fresh pavement with bicycles and scooters, Self-Help Homes spokesperson Julie Lindquist said in a press release.

The families – 18 children and 16 adults – are part of the Mutual Self-Help Housing program, administered in Washington County by the nonprofit Self-Help Homes.

“We are just really grateful for this opportunity,” program participant Aubrey Garrett said at the groundbreaking. “It was definitely an emotional roller coaster getting into the group, but we are beyond blessed.”

The sweat-equity homeownership program offers low interest rates and low entry costs in exchange for hundreds of hours of hard work, giving families with moderate incomes a chance to own a home of their own. Families must contribute at least 35 hours each week for 8-10 months, working as a team to complete 70% of the labor on all nine homes.

Bart Higbee and his wife Ashley are excited to participate in the program. According to the press release, Bart Higbee’s ancestors were originally from Toquerville and helped build the historic winery, so returning to the town holds special meaning for him. Coming from a pioneer and ranching background, he says he is excited to be part of an old-fashioned group effort to build his home and the homes of his neighbors.

“We’re actually really grateful for this program and the opportunity it gives us,” Bart Higbee said at the groundbreaking. “Being able to build our own home means a lot.”

To participate, families must have good credit and a stable income and be willing to work hard, Lindquist said.

“This is such a great program,” she said. “It is so hard for regular working people to get into a home these days, with the cost of houses getting higher and higher. It’s really a great opportunity for our families.”

The program’s low interest rates, $500 down payment, no out-of-pocket closing costs and 33-year mortgages make homeownership a possibility for many families who would otherwise be squeezed out of Washington County’s increasingly expensive housing market, Lindquist said.

“With the USDA’s low interest rates, these mortgages are less than a comparable rental house, if you can even find a rental. And they are brand-new, attractive, energy-efficient homes.”

No construction experience is required to participate in the program, Lindquist said. Self-Help Homes construction managers will teach and guide the families through every stage of construction.

“But by the time they’re finished, they have the knowledge and experience to fix anything that breaks, which is a huge advantage for a homeowner,” she said.

Program participants average around 1,500 hours of the labor on their houses over 8-10 months. Subcontractors are hired for the concrete work, plumbing, electrical – any work that requires a license.

The nine new homes are part of the 16-lot Ash Creek Overlook development by Self-Help Homes. The project includes Peachtree Circle and some adjacent lots on Westfield Road. Footings and plumbing work is already underway on some lots, and the families will start framing the homes within the next few weeks.

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development agency, which provides low-interest mortgages. In Washington County, the program has been administered by Self-Help Homes for the past few years. Before that, more than 120 homes were built in the county through the Mutual Self-Help Housing Program.

Self-Help Homes, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization based in Provo, took over management of the program in Washington County in 2015. The organization has already helped 13 families build homes in Washington County. Statewide, Self-Help Homes has built about 500 homes and currently has several projects underway in Utah and Wasatch counties.

For more information about program qualifications and how to apply, go to the Self-Help Homes website or Facebook page or contact Julie Applegate at 435-429-1048 or [email protected].

Email: [email protected]

Mom Charged After Utah Boy Locked In Bathroom For ‘At Least A Year,’ Police Say

TOQUERVILLE, Utah – A Utah mother faces child abuse charges after her 12-year-old son was found extremely malnourished, weighing only 30 pounds, according... Author: Tribune Media Wire Updated: 5:53 PM CST January 13, 2017 Mom Charged After Utah Boy Locked In Bathroom For ‘At Least A Year,’ Police SayTOQUERVILLE, Utah – A Utah mother faces child abuse charges after her 12-year-old son was found extremely malnourished, ...

TOQUERVILLE, Utah – A Utah mother faces child abuse charges after her 12-year-old son was found extremely malnourished, weighing only 30 pounds, according...

Mom Charged After Utah Boy Locked In Bathroom For ‘At Least A Year,’ Police Say

TOQUERVILLE, Utah – A Utah mother faces child abuse charges after her 12-year-old son was found extremely malnourished, weighing only 30 pounds, according to KSTU-TV.

The investigation started Jan. 8 when the boy’s father took him to the hospital.

Officials said the boy’s father found him locked in an upstairs bathroom at the mother’s Toquerville home in southern Utah.

They said he was so malnourished he could not stand up.

Washington County Sheriff’s Lt. David Crouse said, “The child looked like he was the victim of a concentration camp from World War II.”

Crouse said they believe the boy had been locked in the bathroom for “at least a year.”

Authorities got a warrant to search the home of 36-year-old Brandy K. James, the boy’s mother. Investigators said the bathroom door had two locks, allowing it to be locked from the outside.

Detectives said the living conditions inside the bathroom were “deplorable.”

They found a single blanket, feces scattered across the room, empty cans of beans and a camera that could monitor activity inside the bathroom. “The child looked like he was the victim of a concentration camp from World War II,” said Lt. Crouse.

All of the light switches were off and covered with large amounts of duct tape to keep the lights off.

Officials said two other children were removed from the home, both siblings of the abused boy. However, the two other children did not require medical attention.

One of the siblings said the last conversation they had with their brother through the door was six months ago.

According to deputies, James told them the boy was locked in the bathroom because he wanted to sleep in there and she locked him inside for his “safety” when she left home.

Lt. Crouse said he believes James used the camera to monitor the boy from her cellphone.

He said the siblings told investigators they could see their brother in the bathroom on their mother’s phone.

James is facing aggravated felony child abuse charges.

The boy is expected to be in the hospital for the next three weeks.

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