2026 Articles

Utah

Utah text over background image

Check out Utah’s 2025 accomplishments in the CRWUA 2025 Annual Report.

Here’s an excerpt:

Utah is best known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, abundant outdoor recreation, dynamic economy and entrepreneurial spirit. The state has consistently ranked among the nation’s top performers, earning the No. 1 spot in the U.S. News & World Report Best States rankings for the third year in a row. Utah placed first in economic stability and third overall in economy and infrastructure — a testament to its diverse industries and balanced growth.

Behind this success lies a foundational truth: Utah’s prosperity and quality of life are directly tied to its ability to manage, protect, and develop its most vital resource—water.

Over one-quarter of Utah’s water supply comes from the Colorado River. Utah’s allocation represents 23% of the Upper Basin’s available supply, and how the state manages that water is central to its long-term future. Most of Utah’s Colorado River allocation supports agriculture, helping farmers and ranchers sustain rural economies and food production. Recognizing the challenges of a prolonged drought and shifting climate, in 2025, Utah launched the Utah Demand Management Pilot Program, a voluntary, compensated effort that encourages agricultural water users to temporarily reduce consumption. This program is designed not only to save water but also to evaluate how reductions can be measured, tracked, and credited for long-term benefit.