The Salt Lake City Council formally adopted the 2025 Water Conservation Plan during its meeting on December 2. The adoption comes as the city manages impacts from population growth, climate change, and weather fluctuations on the water supply.
Mayor Erin Mendenhall has announced that the entire Public Utilities service area is under a Stage 2, or mild, Water Shortage Advisory for drought response. This announcement follows recommendations made by the Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities.
Under the Stage 2 advisory, Salt Lake City is calling for a reduction of 10 million gallons of water per day. Residents and businesses can meet this goal through voluntary reductions in both indoor and outdoor water use.
City facilities and government institutions are required to reduce indoor water use by 10% and must stay within their irrigation-only meter budgets. Public Utilities noted that conservation measures are often easier and quicker to implement than building new infrastructure like reservoirs or pumping stations.
Part of the city's long-term planning includes updating the Drought and Water Shortage Contingency Plan. To assist with these efforts, Conservation Program Manager Stephanie Duer is available to provide water-saving information and landscaping tips suitable for the local climate.
Additionally, individuals can participate in Utah's water conservation efforts by earning rewards through programs such as toilet replacement, smart sprinkler controller installation, and water-smart landscaping via Utah Water Savers.
