Water Preservation and Use Element

In 2022, the Utah State Legislature passed legislation that requires the adoption of a Water Preservation and Use Element by most municipalities (Utah Code §10-9a-403). To fulfill this requirement, Magna and Kearns Metro Townships are each working to develop a dedicated Water Preservation and Use Element to serve as supplemental amendments to their General Plans.

The University of Utah’s Department of City & Metropolitan Planning, in collaboration with MSD Long Range planning staff, are actively working on data gathering, analysis, and community engagement efforts to draft recommendations for each community to address the changing community needs and improve water conservation and management practices. View the recommendations below: 

Image of the Great Salt Lake

RECOMMENDATIONS

Landscaping:

- Minimize areas with water intensive plant materials

- Encourage smart irrigation techniques 

- Use local and water wise plant materials 

Aquifer Recharge:

- Update ordinance to require minimum percentage of pervious cover on redevelopment properties for aquifer recharge purposes 

Promote Efficient Land Uses

- Encourage development or redevelopment that uses existing infrastructure efficiently to reduce household water consumption 

What do you think about these recommendations? Provide feedback and thoughts using this form. 


Graphic of Water Preservation and Use Element Recommendations