An overwhelming number of Utahns say they will heed the call to reduce water usage in the face of shortages this year.
A new UtahPolicy.com survey from Dan Jones & Associates finds 87% of Utahns say they will reduce their water usage this year. That number includes 52% who say they will definitely reduce their water consumption. 10% say they will not turn off the tap this summer.
Utah is facing another year of drought after low runoff totals now that most of the winter snowpack is gone. A recent projection from the U.S. Department of Natural Resources finds Utah stream flows are expected to be 20 to 40 percent of average this year, which will contribute to the growing drought in the state.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, a large portion of the state is is classified as "abnormally dry," while the rest of the state is either considered to be in a "moderate" or "severe drought." The area along the Wasatch Front is mostly in "severe drought."
Utahs reservoirs are also very low, with four of the biggest at just 65% of average, which is lower than last year.
Salt Lake City issued a water shortage advisory in April, which warned users of possible shortages this summer.
Lehi City has banned outdoor water toys and implemented a watering schedule for residents.
Earlier in June, Utah Gov. Gary Herbert issued an executive order to all state agencies to reduce water usage including prohibiting watering outdoors during daylight hours.
Northern Utah did see between 5 to 6 inches of rain in May, but that did little to improve the state's water outlook.
The survey was conducted June 2-8, 2015 by Dan Jones & Associates. 601 Utah residents were contacted via telephone and online means. It has a margin of error of +/- 4%.
