Utah declares statewide drought emergency
Utah has declared a statewide drought emergency due to record-low snowpack and severe conditions, triggering emergency funding and encouraging water conservation. Governor Spencer Cox addressed public concerns regarding water usage, specifically noting that a recently approved large-scale data center in Box Elder County would use less water than current local usage, potentially returning water to the Great Salt Lake.
Utah Gov. Spencer Cox declared a statewide drought emergency on Thursday, citing 100% severe drought conditions and record-low snowpack, which supplies 95% of the state's water. The executive order unlocks emergency funding and aims to coordinate a unified response while encouraging residents to reduce outdoor water use. Reservoirs are currently at 70% capacity.
During his announcement, Cox addressed public skepticism regarding water conservation efforts, specifically responding to concerns about farmers and data centers. He defended farmers, stating they make the largest cuts, and addressed a recently approved large-scale data center in Box Elder County. Cox clarified that this data center is projected to use less water than the area's current usage, potentially returning water to the Great Salt Lake.
Tage Flint, executive director of Utah Water Ways, emphasized the recurring nature of droughts in Utah and urged residents across the state to adopt drought-resistant landscaping, following successful initiatives in places like St. George.