Utah Water Conditions Update

Published 01-18-24

SALT LAKE CITY (Jan. 18, 2024) – Assessing Utah’s water conditions in mid-January reveals a unique narrative. While much of December witnessed scarce precipitation, the trajectory shifted with early January storms, bringing our snowpack to normal levels for much of the state. 

(more…)

Utah Water Conditions Update

Published 12-21-23

SALT LAKE CITY (Dec. 20, 2023) – As of late-December, northern Utah has seen some positive progress in the snow season, while the southern part of the state is still recording below-normal numbers. With 105 days remaining until the typical peak snowpack, the state is planning for all scenarios. 

Statewide Snow Water Equivalent (SWE), which determines the amount of water available in the snow, is slightly below normal for this time of year. One notable highlight is soil moisture, which is in a favorable state. Adequate soil moisture supports healthy spring runoff, agricultural activities and sustaining ecosystems. 

(more…)

Great Salt Lake Basin Integrated Plan Open House

Published 12-05-23

Informational open house Dec. 7

SALT LAKE CITY (Dec. 5, 2023) – Upon completion of the draft Work Plan for the Great Salt Lake Basin Integrated Plan, the Utah Division of Water Resources, in collaboration with the Bureau of Reclamation, will be holding a virtual open house on Thursday, Dec. 7. 

“The Great Salt Lake is a unique and precious resource for the state of Utah. We recognize its vital role in our environment, economy and culture,” said the Division of Water Resources Director Candice Hasenyager. “This plan is a significant step toward addressing the complex challenges we face in preserving and protecting this remarkable natural wonder.”

(more…)

Utah Water Conditions Update

Published 11-30-23

SALT LAKE CITY (Nov. 30, 2023) – As Utah approaches the end of fall, water experts are closely monitoring the state’s water conditions, presenting a mixed picture of hope and caution. 

Snow Water Equivalent (SWE), a critical metric for assessing water availability, currently stands at 39% below normal for this time of year. With 125 days remaining until the typical peak snowpack, the state is cautiously optimistic about the potential for a good snow year. 

(more…)

Utah Water Conditions Update

Published 10-12-23

SALT LAKE CITY (Oct. 12, 2023) – As the new water year begins, Utah reservoirs and soil moisture are in a good spot as water managers start tracking data such as snow accumulation, stream flows and soil moisture. 

“A water year, spanning from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30, aligns with natural precipitation and snowmelt patterns, providing a holistic view of our water resources,” Candice Hasenyager, the director of the Division of Water Resources, said. “This timeframe allows water managers to assess reservoir levels, monitor precipitation patterns and plan strategically for the diverse water needs of our communities.”

(more…)

Utah holds its first cloud seeding symposium

Published 09-28-23

SALT LAKE CITY (Sept. 28, 2023) – Today marked the commencement of the highly anticipated Utah Cloud Seeding Symposium at Snowbird Resort. The landmark event proved to be a pivotal moment in the realm of weather modification, bringing together leading experts, researchers and stakeholders to explore the multifaceted world of cloud seeding.

(more…)

Utah Water Conditions Update

Published 09-14-23

SALT LAKE CITY (Sept. 14, 2023) – Monsoonal moisture has played a critical role in reducing water demand across the state. While it hasn’t significantly boosted reservoir levels, it has been instrumental in curbing the pressure on the state’s water resources. 

“Monsoonal moisture may not have been a silver bullet for our reservoirs, but it has been a lifeline in reducing demand,” Candice Hasenyager, the director of the Division of Water Resources, said, “It reminds us that nature plays an important role in our quest for resiliency, and reducing demand is the one lever we have to pull to secure our water future.”

(more…)

Utah Water Conditions Update

Published 08-14-23

SALT LAKE CITY (Aug. 14, 2023) – As scorching heat returns to Utah, the state’s reservoirs have become crucial sources, fulfilling the needs of residents, agriculture and municipalities. In these times of reliance on water reserves, fostering a waterwise mindset is imperative to ensure sustainability during the inevitable dry years ahead. 

(more…)

Utah Water Conditions Update

Published 07-13-23

SALT LAKE CITY (July 13, 2023) – Utah’s water supply continues to benefit from a stellar winter as of the beginning of July. The state has experienced a gradual melt-off, which has helped replenish water reserves.

“Last year, we were facing unfavorable records. Now, we are achieving positive milestones,” Candice Hasenyager, the director of the Division of Water Resources, said, “This year’s exceptional snowpack offers us a unique opportunity to enhance our resilience to drought by continuing to conserve and preserve our water supply.”

According to the latest data from the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Utah has currently received 137% of normal precipitation. This is a significant improvement when compared to last year when precipitation was 7% below normal. Soil moisture has been a major driver for how efficient the state’s runoff has been. The record snowpack kept the soil moisture high. Very little runoff soaked into the  soil and instead refilled streams, rivers, lakes and reservoirs.

(more…)