The need for water conservation has never been greater in Utah. With population expected to double in 40 years, climate variability, extended droughts, and development and storage of new water becoming increasingly difficult, Utahns must find more efficient ways to use this precious resource.
How Much Can We Save?
The State of Utah adopted a goal in 2019 to reach 187 gallons of water used per person, per day (GPCD). This includes all indoor and outdoor use. Overall, Utah has reduced per capita water use 20% since the year 2000 using easier conservation methods. The next conservation steps will require a more significant change in behavior and require more money to achieve the statewide goal.
While conservation won’t be enough to meet our future water needs, it will delay the need for development and infrastructure well into the future. We’ve already seen Utahns respond in an unprecedented way. In 2022, despite it being the hottest July on record, there’s only been a 5% increase in water use compared to the previous year. When population growth is factored in, Utahns used significantly less water outside this year than the year before.
Why Conserve?
Future Generations
Conserving water preserves our existing water supplies for future generations, and if we want our children and grandchildren to live in our beautiful state, we will need water to provide for them and their families.
Environment
Water conservation leaves water in rivers, lakes, streams, and wetlands—providing important environmental support.
Economic Value
Installing water-efficient landscapes is five times less expensive than replacing landscapes in the future. Conserving now makes room for a more moderate regional water solution that will prevent extreme requirements, mandates, and actions in the future.