Washington County's New Water Policy: A Closer Look at Large Water Users
Washington County, Utah, has implemented a new water policy that introduces stringent requirements and assessments for large water users, particularly targeting commercial, industrial, and institutional customers (CIIs). This policy aims to address concerns about water resource management and ensure sustainable water usage in the region.
The policy focuses on CIIs such as golf courses, data centers, food processing plants, and bottling plants, which are known to consume significant amounts of water. It excludes previously constructed developments or those with their own water supply, ensuring that existing infrastructure is not affected.
According to Doug Bennett, conservation manager at the Washington County Water Conservancy District, the policy will subject large applicants to rigorous scrutiny. These applicants must demonstrate that their water usage serves a critical need for the community, enhances economic productivity, and incorporates advanced conservation initiatives.
The largest one percent of CIIs are responsible for approximately half of the water usage in their respective areas. The new policy sets different thresholds for water usage, requiring facilities using over nine million gallons annually to undergo review by an administrative advisory committee comprising city leaders and municipal partners. In Toquerville, Virgin, and La Verkin, the threshold is significantly lower at five million gallons.
Bennett emphasizes the importance of this policy in preventing one city from approving extremely large water users that could potentially impact neighboring cities' water supplies. With eight cities sharing the water supply in Washington County, accountability and coordination are crucial.
During the review process, projects must meet specific criteria, including serving a critical public interest, implementing aggressive water efficiency measures, and maximizing the economic productivity of water use in the region. Bennett suggests that this includes adopting high-technology approaches to significantly reduce water consumption.
Hospitals, despite their substantial water usage (30 to 50 million gallons annually), are exempt from the policy due to their essential role in serving the public interest. However, this exemption is carefully considered to maintain a balanced approach to water resource management.
Golf courses, a common target of this policy, face scrutiny due to their high water consumption. With 14 golf courses within a 20-mile radius in St. George, and potential plans for more, Bennett highlights the need for these courses to manage their water resources effectively. He suggests that golf courses can thrive while operating on a smaller water footprint.
Washington County's water supply relies on the Virgin River Basin, and the policy addresses concerns about large water users potentially disrupting long-term water resources. Bennett emphasizes the importance of making wise decisions about water investments, especially with the Virgin River already fully allocated. The goal is to maximize the efficiency of the available water supply in the county.
The new policy takes effect immediately, aiming to prevent overextension of water commitments during droughts or inadequate reservoir storage. Bennett stresses that a reliable water supply is essential for a thriving economy, and this policy is a step towards ensuring Washington County's water resources are managed sustainably.
