Right now, the vast majority of water use in Utah goes to agriculture, and a big chunk of that is spent on one, very thirsty crop: alfalfa hay. Can we reallocate water from some amount of farming to help with expected population growth? And what other measures might the state adopt to further promote water conservation? Finally, should Utah be pursuing large-scale infrastructure projects to move water from one region to another, or are the potential environmental impacts too great?
This is the first episode in an ongoing series on how water gets used, conserved, or even wasted in Utah — and on the pressing challenges to the state’s water future.
Guests:
Dan McCool, professor emeritus of environmental studies at the University of Utah
Eric Millis, director of the Utah Division of Water Resources
Todd Adams, deputy director of the Utah Division of Water Resources
How do you feel about this topic?
Is there anything else you think we should know? We'd like to hear your thoughts. Send us your feedback using the form below.
