The Utah Division of Water Resources has released a preliminary draft of the 2026 State Water Plan, launching a public comment period that runs through August 23, 2026. The draft aims to establish a shared vision for the state's water management, prioritizing healthy watersheds, productive agriculture, and vibrant communities.
Collaborative Planning Process
The 2026 update is the result of extensive collaboration between the division and a diverse group of stakeholders, including local governments, tribal representatives, water providers, and members of the public. This collaborative effort follows a series of community gatherings known as "Water Talks" that the division organized throughout the state last August.
Public Engagement Opportunities
To facilitate the planning process, the division is hosting a virtual open house on July 30, 2026, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. This event will provide a short overview of the plan and include a live question-and-answer session. Members of the public may also submit questions in advance to be addressed during the open house.
Legal Mandates and Objectives
Under Utah Code 73-10-15, the Division of Water Resources is legally required to periodically publish a state water plan. These plans are designed to identify current water use and future demand across Utah, while providing recommendations for policy, fiscal support, and the implementation of findings by both private and governmental institutions. The 2026 plan builds upon the 2021 Water Resources Plan, which focused on the principles of reliable data, secure water supply, and healthy watersheds.
Legislative Directives and Agency Roles
The development of the plan is supported by a wide array of state and local entities. Following the passage of HB 280 by the Utah Legislature in 2024, several state agencies are directed to collaborate with the division on the plan's development. These include the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, the Department of Agriculture and Food, and the Department of Natural Resources, which includes the Division of Water Rights.
State Agency Collaboration
Other state-level collaborators mandated by HB 280 include the Utah Geological Survey, the Division of Wildlife Resources, the Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands, and the Public Lands Policy Coordinating Office. The Department of Environmental Quality, via the Division of Drinking Water and the Division of Water Quality, also participates. Additionally, the Office of the Great Salt Lake Commissioner and the Colorado River Authority of Utah are involved in the process.
The Role of Watershed Councils
At the local level, the planning process incorporates input from water conservancy districts and watershed councils. The Utah Watersheds Council, for instance, serves as a state council designed to facilitate discussion and collaboration among stakeholders regarding the water-related interests of the state's people and institutions. The council's duties include facilitating communication between various state departments, such as the Department of Natural Resources, the Department of Agriculture and Food, and the Department of Environmental Quality.
Council Support and Duties
The Utah Watersheds Council also works to facilitate the establishment and certification of local councils and provides resources and support for their administration. The council is tasked with seeking guidance from local councils and providing advice to the governor and the legislature on water issues. The Division of Water Resources provides the necessary staff and administrative support to the council and ensures its meetings are properly noticed on the Public Meeting Website.
