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. 

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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.

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Utah Division of Water Resources Introduces a Way to Report “Water Wins”

Published 05-17-23

SALT LAKE CITY (May 17, 2023) – The Utah Division of Water Resources has announced the launch of a new online form where residents can submit “Water Wins,” or waterwise actions they’ve noticed in their communities. These water-saving actions could include waterwise landscaping, creative water re-use or major upgrades in commercial water systems.

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Gov. Cox appoints Brian Steed as new Great Salt Lake commissioner

Published 05-15-23

SALT LAKE CITY (May 15, 2023) – Gov. Spencer Cox has named Brian Steed as the state’s new Great Salt Lake commissioner. This appointment is subject to approval by the Utah Senate. 

“Brian has been a trusted advisor for many years and I appreciate his willingness to re-enter public service at this critical time,” said Gov. Cox. “We have a unique opportunity right now to protect and preserve the Great Salt Lake, and Brian’s expertise and passion for the lake will ensure its future is secure for generations to come.”

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Gov. Cox Issues Executive Order to Increase Utah’s Drought Resiliency

Published 05-10-23

SALT LAKE CITY (May 10, 2023) – Gov. Spencer Cox has issued an executive order requiring water conservation at state facilities with the goal of increasing Utah’s drought resiliency. 

Under Executive Order 2023-07, each state agency will assess its compliance with water conservation requirements for state facilities, coordinate with the Division of Facilities Construction and Management and the Division of Water Resources to implement and follow those requirements, and follow the Division of Water Resources’ weekly watering guide.

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Two local watersheds councils apply for certification from the Utah Watersheds Council

Published 04-11-23

Stakeholders come together to collaborate on critical water issues

SALT LAKE CITY, UT (April 11, 2023) – The Bear River and Jordan River watershed councils will apply for certification from the Utah Watersheds Council on April 12 at 9 a.m. at the Department of Natural Resources in Salt Lake City. If granted, this certification will make them the first functioning local watershed councils under the Utah Watersheds Council Act.

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