Training Turfgrass for Drought Resilience

Authors

• Kelly Kopp, Utah State UniversityFollow
• Jerry L. Goodspeed, Utah State University ExtensionFollow

Document Type

Factsheet

Publisher

Utah State University Extension

Publication Date

4-28-2026

First Page

1

Last Page

2

Abstract

Utah’s semi-arid climate always makes efficient irrigation essential, but never more so than during a drought. In many communities, outdoor landscape irrigation represents the largest share of residential water use during the summer months. At the same time, research and Utah State University (USU) Extension observations have consistently shown that lawns across the state are often overwatered, leading to shallow root systems and increased vulnerability to heat and drought stress. Adjusting irrigation practices during drought not only conserves water but also improves the long-term health and resilience of turfgrass systems.

Recommended Citation

Kopp, K., & Goodspeed, J. (2026). Training turfgrass for drought resilience [Fact sheet]. Utah State University Extension.