Recent Updates (as of 03/07/24)

  • Utah’s water outlook for March is marked by encouraging developments and notable records. Alta recently experienced its wettest February on record, showcasing the dynamic nature of our climate and its potential impact on water resources. 
  • According to the Natural Resources Conservation Service in their March 1st Water Supply Report, the state received 157% of our typical amount of snow water equivalent (SWE) for the month of February, and our statewide SWE percent of normal ended the month at 117%. 
  • Entering the traditionally wettest months of March, April and May, Utah’s water situation is robust. Soil moisture remains favorable, setting the stage for optimal conditions as we approach spring runoff. Saturated soils will allow more water to make its way to reservoirs and streams. 
  • Great Salt Lake has seen a noteworthy net increase, rising 1.8 feet since October. This positive change in lake levels adds to the actions and investments from the Legislature over the past three years to preserve and protect the lake. DNR actions, such as the modification of the GSL berm, as directed in the governor’s executive order, have reduced salinity and shown signs of benefiting the brine shrimp population in the south arm of the lake.  Currently, SWE in the GSL basin is 123% of normal.  February precipitation in the GSL basin was 183% of normal, bringing the water year precipitation value to date to 118% of normal.
  • Statewide, reservoirs are currently at an impressive 83%, showcasing solid water storage. This level is 22% higher than normal and a drastic contrast to last year when reservoirs statewide were around half full. These figures reaffirm the strength and importance of our water storage and infrastructure. 
  • Mother Nature is doing her part. We need to continue to do ours and look for ways to use our water supply efficiently and become more drought resilient. 
  • In Utah, we are either in drought or preparing for the next one, so we always need to use our water wisely.
Utah State Capitol, January 2024

Current Conditions

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Reservoir Levels

Reservoirs collect and store water for drinking, irrigation for farms and ranches, and provide minimum flows for fish health.

Snowpack

95% of Utah’s water comes from snowpack. The NRCS Snow Survey Program provides mountain snowpack data critical for water supply management, conservation planning, drought prediction and more. 

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Drought Monitor

The U.S. Drought Monitor is a national drought map that categorizes drought into four categories: moderate, severe, extreme, and exceptional.

Water Conditions Monitoring

The Division of Water Resources, the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, and the Utah Climate Center host a committee to collect weather conditions around the state.

Wildfire

In Utah, more than half of the wildfires are human-caused. Please be vigilant and use good Fire Sense to help prevent human-caused wildfires.

Great Salt Lake

Extended drought conditions contributed to the decline of lake elevation levels. The Great Salt Lake website centralizes the organizations, tools and work that strive to protect and preserve the lake.

Be Waterwise

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Weekly Lawn Watering Guide
This guide uses data based on weather patterns to customize watering recommendations for each county.

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Slow the Flow
Water-saving tips, tools and rebates to help Utahns slow the flow and use this precious resource wisely.

Impacts & Restrictions

Recreational Impacts

Low water levels can impact recreation. Know before you go and avoid boat ramp closures and other surprises.

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Your Water Supply

Water sources and conditions vary across the state. Restrictions are determined and enforced at the local level, which allows for customization according to the area’s water supply conditions.

Wildlife & Agriculture Impacts

Drought affects fish, wildlife and agriculture. For example, as water levels drop, water heats up and can be fatal to fish, which may result in changes to fishing limits. Cuts to water use may also impact farmers.

Water Rights

The Division of Water Rights is responsible for distributing Utah’s water to those entitled to use it. When there is not enough water to meet all demands, water rights are satisfied in the order they were first established.