Since its inception, the Utah Rivers Council 
has promoted water conservation as an alternative to water development. Despite a somewhat increased focus on water conservation in the last several years, decision makers and water suppliers remain reluctant to explore and implement sound water conservation programs instead of traditional water development projects to satisfy future water demands.
It is no coincidence that Utah has the highest per capita water use and the 2nd lowest water rates in the nation. Many elements contribute to Utah’s extremely high water use ranging from tax subsidies to inadequate state commitment to conservation and a planning mentality that favors supply-side construction solutions instead of demand-side reduction alternatives. The URC’s water conservation campaign involves researching, implementing, and elevating awareness about cheaper, less destructive alternatives to dams and diversions on Utah’s rivers.
Recent Posts
September 2, 2011: Why is Utah so Wasteful?
Resources & Publications
Mirage in the Desert: Property Tax Subsidies for Water A 2001 Utah Rivers Council Report