For 35 years, Professor Robert Mahler at the University of Idaho (UI) Department of Soil and Water Systems has meticulously tracked changing public perceptions of water resources in Idaho.
His exhaustive dataset represents one of the longest-standing public water surveys in the nation, capturing exactly how residents view their most vital natural asset.
Launched in 1988 alongside the UI extension water resources program, the research reveals a strong preference for voluntary conservation over governmental regulation.
Over the decades, the percentage of residents willing to take voluntary actions to protect water quality—such as reducing fertilizer use—jumped dramatically from 26% to over 80%.
While early surveys showed high confidence in drinking water safety, recent data indicates a slight dip, likely due to rapid population growth. Recent surveys show that concerns about mountain snowpack levels have surged to the forefront, while the recognized importance of agricultural irrigation has declined among newer residents.
As Professor Mahler prepares to retire after a nearly 46-year career, he hopes the UI Extension will transition to online surveys to continue this critical work. Maintaining this comprehensive dataset will provide state lawmakers with the vital information needed to encourage voluntary conservation programs without increasing regulatory burdens.
You can reach Dr. Mahler here.
