Document Type

Article

Publisher

Water Resources Research

Publication Date

2025

Journal Article Version

Author's Original

First Page

1

Last Page

37

Abstract

This study used immersive online collaborative modeling of water banking to explore strategies to get more water to the declining Great Salt Lake (GSL). In a model session, each collaborator immersed in a water user role. They articulated a strategy to consume and bank water. Then they adapted their strategy in response to their available water, others’ choices, and the real-time discussion of choices. Collaborators included 29 farmers, ranchers, practitioners, and experts. Collaborators who personified agricultural users had the most varied strategies. They balanced economic viability, long-term sustainability, and land preservation. Pricing water was challenging, with prices ranging from $15 to $300 per acre-foot. The modeling highlighted the importance of local context in shaping water bank dynamics. The study yielded two novel strategies to deliver more water to GSL: (1) bank water in an upstream reservoir during summer months, then release water to GSL in the winter when there are few intermediary diversions; and (2) combine small volumes of banked water into larger, short-duration pulse releases for measurable downstream delivery. Immersive modeling increased engagement, social learning, and empathy for other users. The modeling found "win-win" outcomes where agricultural users retained water rights, generated income, and supported environmental goals. A next step is for a local water agency to set up a water bank under existing Utah law. Another next step is to scale up modeling to a river basin where there is potentially more water to deliver to GSL and increased complexity of interstate management.

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