The Utah Division of Water Resources is providing customized weekly lawn watering guides to help residents conserve water following a May 21, 2026, executive order from Governor Spencer J. Cox declaring a statewide state of emergency due to drought.
Weekly watering guide details
The watering guides are updated weekly based on weather data collected throughout the state and offer different instructions for conventional lawns versus low-water-use varieties. The Utah Division of Water Resources noted that many residents are intentionally choosing low-water-use landscapes to assist with conservation efforts.
Effective cycle and soak method
To prevent runoff and improve soil absorption, officials recommend a 'cycle and soak' method. This technique involves splitting the total required run time into three shorter cycles with 30 to 45-minute breaks between each application.
Estimating sprinkler run times
The Division of Water Resources provides specific run time estimates for achieving 0.5 inches of water based on sprinkler head types. For example, spray heads with a precipitation rate of 1.3 to 2.0 inches per hour require 15 to 23 minutes of watering, while rotor heads with lower rates may require up to 75 minutes.
Water-efficient seed and safety tips
Residents can look for grass seed with the Turfgrass Water Conservation Alliance stamp of approval, and some areas like Salt Lake City and Provo offer reduced-cost TWCA-approved seed through 'Turf Trade' programs. Additionally, officials remind the public that secondary water used for irrigation is not safe for drinking or play.
