Utah's agricultural program to reduce water use through improved efficiency is showing some encouraging results. Nearly 700 projects have secured funding under the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food's Agricultural Water Optimization Program. To date, 250 projects have been completed resulting in annual savings of over 40,891 acre-feet of water! This volume of water could fill Quail Creek Reservoir each year, and savings are anticipated to climb.
On-farm enhancements account for nearly 80% of approved projects, while canal improvements comprise the remainder. The selection process prioritizes project type, projected water savings, and cost-per-acre. The state program also designates "priority water" areas based on evolving needs. About $56.7 million has been distributed to farmers and ranchers and a total of $150.6 million is obligated to the program.
The program also encourages innovative water solutions including planting alternative crops, no-till farming, and improved management practices. There has been high demand to participate in the program since its inception in 2019 as demonstrated by the thousands of applications submitted.
Historically, agriculture leads state water consumption, accounting for 75% to 85% of Utah's total use. The program began amid frequent droughts, which caused uncertainty in the industry's water supply.
Lawmakers now allow farmers to sell conserved water without losing rights, directly benefiting struggling bodies like the Great Salt Lake. Soon, a new online dashboard will provide updated project data.
The Agricultural Water Optimization Program committee recommends $1million in future research to identify optimal irrigation techniques that enable farmers to maintain productivity while minimizing water consumption.
Click here for more information on this agricultural optimization program and how to apply.
