Washington County Implements Stricter Water Rules for Major Users – And This Could Change Everything
ST. GEORGE, Utah (KUTV) — Washington County has rolled out a new water policy that introduces stricter requirements and closer oversight for large water consumers. This move aims to ensure sustainable water management as the county grows.
The policy specifically targets incoming large-scale commercial, industrial, and institutional (CII) users, such as golf courses, data centers, food processing facilities, and bottling plants. Developments that are already in place or have independent water sources are not affected by the new rules.
Doug Bennett, the conservation manager at the Washington County Water Conservancy District, explains, “We expect that these large applicants will face careful scrutiny to ensure they meet all necessary criteria: demonstrating a critical benefit to the community, enhancing the economic productivity of water, and employing the highest level of conservation practices.”
Interestingly, the largest one percent of these CIIs are responsible for about half of the total water usage in their areas, making this policy highly significant.
Under the new rules, facilities that consume more than nine million gallons of water annually must undergo a review by an administrative advisory committee composed of city leaders and municipal partners. In smaller cities like Toquerville, Virgin, and La Verkin, the threshold is set at five million gallons.
Bennett emphasizes the regional impact: “This policy ensures that no single city can approve a massive water user that might strain the water resources available to neighboring cities. With eight cities sharing the same water supply in Washington County, there’s a strong sense of accountability between municipalities.”
During this review, projects are expected to demonstrate that they serve a critical public interest, implement aggressive water conservation measures, and boost the economic productivity of their water usage.
When discussing what constitutes "aggressive" water efficiency measures, Bennett notes, “We’re not just talking about standard measures like low-flow faucets or efficient toilets. We want to see innovative, high-tech solutions that significantly cut water consumption.”
However, not all large users fall under this policy. Hospitals, for instance, are exempt because they consume between 30 to 50 million gallons per year but provide an essential public service.
Bennett elaborates, “These projects could create jobs or provide essential services to the community. The review committee will carefully evaluate whether these large water allocations truly benefit residents and justify the investment.”
Golf courses, in particular, will feel the effects of this policy. St. George alone has 14 golf courses within a 20-mile radius, and more are being considered. Each course uses at least the nine-million-gallon threshold, making them significant water consumers.
“Large water users must manage this resource responsibly,” says Bennett. “The golf industry, for example, still has ample opportunities to operate high-quality courses with a reduced water footprint.”
Washington County relies heavily on the Virgin River Basin for its water. The water district stresses that this policy is crucial to prevent large consumers from jeopardizing long-term water availability.
Bennett adds, “The Virgin River is fully allocated, so every drop we have must be used wisely. Our goal is to maximize the value and impact of the water resources in the county.”
This policy is effective immediately.
“Overcommitting water resources can leave us vulnerable to drought or low reservoir levels,” Bennett warns. “A strong and thriving economy depends on having a reliable water supply.”
What do you think? Should large water users be subjected to stricter oversight, or does this policy risk stifling growth and development? Share your thoughts below!
