Date of Award:

5-2016

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Science (MS)

Department:

Environment and Society

Committee Chair(s)

Joanna Endter-Wada

Committee

Joanna Endter-Wada

Committee

Christopher Lant

Committee

James Long

Abstract

In the arid western United States (U.S.), population expansion is dependent on water supply. With the majority of the water being consumed in agriculture, municipalities often obtain water supply needed for growth from agriculture. This exchange occurs through agricultural-to-urban water right transfers. This trend drives the question of how to strike a balance between agricultural and urban water needs in rapidly growing arid regions.

Utah, located in the Intermountain region of the western U.S., is a state with a rapidly growing population and limited water supply. This research focuses on existing challenges and opportunities for balancing expanding municipal development and existing agricultural water needs in Utah. Data for this study were collected through multiple qualitative methods including: personal interviews were with a selection of Utah Division of Water Rights employees and representatives from the Mt. Nebo Water Agency; participant observations at public meetings; and secondary data obtained through publicly available documents combined with state water law and policy.

The results of this research highlight agricultural-to-urban water transitions from both statewide and local perspectives. Statewide policy challenges arise as water rights increase in monetary value, incentivizing speculation. Further challenges occur as municipal uses are given preference in state development strategies over agricultural uses. This preference can incentivize both the selling of water to municipalities and the gathering of large municipal water right portfolios. Local challenges arise if population growth and accompanying water needs are not accounted for in the water budget or infrastructure. Opportunities through regional planning involving local collaboration and communication among stakeholders is key for striking a balance between agricultural and urban water interests.

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