A lackluster and dry winter has led to drought conditions in Washington and Iron Counties.
The U.S. Drought Monitor says that a majority of Washington County and a third of Iron County are experiencing drought conditions.
Statewide, up to 77% of Utah is listed as moderate to extreme drought. As of Thursday, Feb. 20, southwest Utah has just 36% of its normal snow water equivalent.
According to the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s February Report, southwestern Utah has been breaking records for minimal snowpack equivalent since Jan. 20.
The Central Iron County Water Conservancy District recently reported that residents are looking at the region’s driest year in 131 years.
The Colorado Basin River Forecast Center models the anticipated water supply based on soil moisture and snowpack. The majority of Utah falls below 70% of the average. In Southern Utah, the forecasts are closer to 30%. Officials note that the drier the ground is, the more it will soak up melting snow runoff before it reaches streams and rivers that refill reservoirs across the state.
In Utah, about 95% of the water supply comes from snowpack, and with the likelihood of a dry year ahead, water managers ask that people focus on water conservation.
“Without significant precipitation, we are facing a record drought, and it’s important that our community work together to conserve and manage our resources,” said Paul Monroe, general manager of the Central Iron County Water Conservancy District. “While we are actively pursuing solutions due to water challenges, we need everyone to contribute to making every drop count.”
Washington and Iron County continue to pitch the water-efficient landscaping rebate program that pays $2 per square foot to replace water-fed turf with desert-friendly landscaping.
People can visit Utah Water Savers to learn more about this and other rebates.
In Iron County, the water district is working with Southern Utah University and Utah State University to study the best practices for water conservation.
Both water districts are working to secure new water sources and promote reuse water infrastructure for irrigation.
The Washington County Water Conservancy District also recommends the following water-saving practices:
- Fix leaks in toilets and sinks.
- Run full loads in dishwashers and washing machines.
- Turn off the water while brushing teeth, shaving, soaping up, doing dishes or rinsing vegetables.
- Reduce shower time by at least a minute.
- Plan now for the irrigation season and consider water-wise landscaping or buying a smart irrigation controller.
Author: Maddi Munro
Photo courtesy of Mike Newbry
Editor: Chevy Blackburn
outdoors@suunews.net
