Utah’s Drought Conditions

This blog post is a follow up piece to an article originally published in the April 2023 edition of SWM Life Magazine.

Last spring we reported that although we received record breaking snowpack and monsoonal rains, Utah was still considered to be in a severe drought. In fact, the US Drought Monitor had 60% of Utah listed as being in an ‘D3 Extreme’ or ‘D4 Exceptional Drought’; the highest levels of drought intensity. As of July 30th, that same percentage of the state is currently experiencing the lowest levels of drought intensity ‘D0 Abnormally Dry’. This has been the result of a second consecutive year on above average snowpack and rainfall. 

As evidence, the Utah Division of Water Resources is reporting that current reservoir levels across the state (excluding Lake Powell and Flaming Gorge) are at ~84% of total capacity. Lake Powell is currently at ~41% (up from 37% in April 2023). 

Both state and Local municipalities have taken great strides to encourage and practice water conservation principles. Multiple ordinances have been passed locally that affect both current residents and new homes being built in Washington County. These include prohibiting non-functional grass in projects, rebates for landscape conversion and energy efficient equipment, as well as outlining watering schedules during the hottest parts of the year. While these initiatives have been a great start towards addressing potential water issues, homeowners must make the commitment practicing water conservation (think shower length, excessive irrigation, waiting for the water to become hot). 

At the state level, Utah has committed itself to investing in infrastructure and technology to improve water management. In the community association management industry, steps have been taken to promote and encourage water wise practices. Communities and management companies across the state have signed the Association Drought Compact. UCCAI (Utah Chapter of Community Association Institute) has worked with state and local legislators to promote and adopt beneficial ordinances and laws that affect necessary change for our future. While the path to exiting dangerous drought conditions is long, the winter weather we’ve received has been an encouraging sign of progress. However, despite the progress made, it’s still up to each of us to do our part and practice water wise principles.