Utah using technology, law to save water

Even as Utah homeowners rip out their thirsty lawns in favor of low-water vegetation, city governments are rushing to pass restrictions on water use as the state suffers a fifth consecutive year of drought.

The efforts by communities from Salt Lake City to St. George are designed to reduce water use and set clear guides on what stages of drought trigger restrictions and fines.

In Salt Lake City, residents and businesses have voluntarily reduced water use by 22 percent this spring, and yet the city may soon pass an ordinance that would slap scofflaws with fines of up to $1,000.

New laws — rather than gentle reminders and advertising campaigns — show municipalities are clearly worried that the drought may get worse.

Drought maps have depicted Utah as the only Western state entirely consumed by extreme or exceptional drought. A paltry snowpack in many Utah mountain ranges as well as hot, dry winds and insect infestations have exacerbated the problem, and spring rains have done little to help.

Some consider the current drought historic. State officials say that in nearly 500 years, the Great Basin has had only three droughts as long as this one — an incentive for cities to preserve precious stores.

"We've learned some hard lessons," said Kathy Gammell, water manager for Park City. "Who would have thought we'd be in a fifth year of drought. I don't know if it'll be this year, next year or five years from now, but we'll need to be prepared."

She's hoping to avoid a situation where water sources drop dramatically and cities are unprepared to deal with it.

Park City council members are considering a three-tier plan that at the most extreme could outlaw outdoor watering altogether. The current ordinance — in effect since 1984 — allows residents to water only every other day. Outside watering is banned from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

In Salt Lake City, a plan is being considered by the City Council that would first institute mandatory water restrictions on municipal users — city agencies and government branches.

"Before we point a finger toward residents and businesses, we need our municipalities to set the right example," said Stephanie Duer, Salt Lake City's water conservation coordinator. "We should be the first ones to give something up."