Building Utah

This is Derek Miller Speaking on Business. Researchers from Utah State University and BYU recently reported that our current drought is comparable to the Dust Bowl era during the 1930’s. It’s a serious situation, which is why Michael Shea, the Sustainability Director for Salt Lake County, is here to share more. MICHAEL SHEA As we enter another year of drought, we all need to look at how we can better conserve water. Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson has set ambitious goals over the last 2 years to cut our county’s water use by five percent per year. While reducing that amount is important, investing in long term conservation measures is what will solve the problem. That’s why the county is spending $2 million to redo the landscapes of park strips from grass to xeriscaping – an effort that will save an estimated 5 million gallons of water every year. While the county is working to reduce its consumption, we need the help of residents and businesses as well. Cutting outdoor sprinkler use by 10% and wate