- Public meetings begin August 28 in Monticello.
- Topics include water use, demand, and conservation.
- The plan will guide Utah’s water management through 2026 and beyond.
Monday, August 11, 2025 — On August 7, 2025, the Utah Division of Water Resources announced a series of public “Water Talks
” to gather input for the state’s 2026 water plan. These community meetings will be held across Utah from late August through October, giving residents an opportunity to share priorities and local knowledge.
The meetings will explain the importance of the state water plan and collect feedback on how water should be managed, used, and protected. Input from these sessions will be incorporated into the plan, which is expected to be published by the end of 2026.
What the State Water Plan Covers.
Utah law requires the Division of Water Resources to periodically prepare a comprehensive water plan. This document evaluates current water use, forecasts future demand, and provides recommendations for policies, funding, and implementation strategies.
The process involves extensive data gathering, modeling, and collaboration among stakeholders from agriculture, industry, recreation, conservation, government, academia, and the general public.
Agencies and Organizations Involved.
Following the passage of House Bill 280 in 2024, multiple state and local entities are now formally involved in developing the water plan. These include the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, the Department of Agriculture and Food, the Division of Water Rights, the Utah Geological Survey, the Division of Wildlife Resources, the Colorado River Authority of Utah, and various water conservancy districts and watershed councils.
Meeting Schedule and Participation Options.
The first Water Talk will take place in Monticello on August 28, followed by meetings in Spanish Fork (September 8), Logan (September 22), Salt Lake City (September 24), and Vernal (October 23). Some locations will offer virtual participation options, while others will be in-person only.
The Division of Water Resources plans to update the state water plan at least every ten years, with an internal goal of revising it every five years. Residents can sign up for email updates to follow the plan’s progress.
