Water Management

Negotiations remain at an impasse, making a messy court battle increasingly likely. One Utah water official argued such a move would mean choosing courtrooms over cooperation.

An annual water policy conference brought two negotiators together to address questions about the strained negotiations. The seven states remain at an impasse despite federal pressures.

Researchers are using satellites to track how much water is not just in the river, but held in nearby snow and soil. That increased accuracy could help cities and farms plan for shortages.

Some worry the proposal would put states in continual negotiations, which historically have been unproductive. However, it could be a step towards a longer-term plan.

Data centers, like the massive Stratos Project in Box Elder County, have faced backlash over negative effects on water, air, wildlife, and more. A study could pin down what those effects would be.

One application was withdrawn on May 5 after receiving nearly 4,000 formal complaints. Now, the protest period for an application from a separate entity has begun.

The project is meant to move groundwater to the Cedar City area, where officials say there's increased demand. Opponents, however, worry about the impact on farmers, wildlife, and future generations.

The Great Salt Lake Strike Team released their 2024 report this week and the main conclusion is clear: long-term solutions are necessary to restore and rehabilitate

In other news, management plans for the Great Salt Lake and Utah Lake are being updated, and Utah officials are seeking public input on their plans.

While Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming have one plan in mind, California, Arizona and Nevada have a different idea, and environmental factors only strengthen disagreement.