The Town Trying to Pump Billions of Gallons of Water to Their Desert Community

Summary

The video explores the rapidly growing Washington County in southwestern Utah, where the once-desert landscape now supports a booming population and tourism industry. The county faces a critical water shortage, prompting officials to propose a controversial pipeline project from Lake Powell. This $2 billion pipeline would divert water from the Colorado River, raising concerns about its environmental impact and the sustainability of such growth. Conservationists argue for water conservation over expansion, highlighting the broader issues of climate change and water mismanagement in the American West.

Takeaways

• 😀 Washington County, Utah, a rapidly growing region, is experiencing water scarcity despite its population boom and increasing tourism.
• 😀 The region's main water source, the Colorado River, is already stressed, with drought conditions affecting much of the Western U.S.
• 😀 A proposed $2 billion pipeline project aims to bring water from the Colorado River’s Lake Powell to Washington County, but it is highly controversial.
• 😀 Conservationists argue that the pipeline is a 'disaster' and would deprive other Western states like Nevada, California, and Arizona of vital water supplies.
• 😀 Washington County currently uses three times the national average of water, primarily due to its landscaping, including golf courses and lawns.
• 😀 The region's rapid growth, projected to reach 500,000 people by 2065, drives the demand for more water, especially for residential lawns and recreational spaces.
• 😀 Despite water conservation efforts, the region's reliance on cheap water and growing water consumption remains a significant issue.
• 😀 Local officials argue that the pipeline is necessary to support the area's growth, given its proximity to the Colorado River and its need for a reliable water supply.
• 😀 Opponents of the pipeline suggest that Washington County should focus on reducing water use rather than expanding access to more water.
• 😀 The debate surrounding the pipeline reflects broader tensions in the American West, where over-extraction and climate change are threatening water resources.
• 😀 Ultimately, Washington County faces a critical choice: stop growing or secure additional water resources to sustain its rapid development.

Q & A

What is the current population of Washington County, and how much is it projected to grow by 2065?

Washington County's current population is nearly 200,000, and it is projected to grow to half a million by 2065.

How many golf courses are there in Washington County, and why is golf a significant feature in the region?

There are 13 golf courses in Washington County, with one added this year. Golf is significant because it highlights the region's growth and its reliance on water resources for maintaining green spaces.

What water-related challenge does Washington County face?

Washington County faces a water scarcity issue, as it struggles with drought conditions and a rapidly growing population, leading to concerns about water supply.

What is the proposed solution for addressing Washington County's water shortage?

The proposed solution is the Lake Powell pipeline, which would cost upwards of $2 billion and deliver up to 28 billion gallons of water per year from the Colorado River to St. George's reservoir.

Why do some conservationists oppose the Lake Powell pipeline project?

Conservationists, like Zac Frankel, oppose the pipeline because they believe it would exacerbate water scarcity in the Southwest, diverting more water from already strained resources in states like California, Arizona, and Nevada.

What is the current water situation in St. George's reservoir?

St. George's reservoir is currently about 60% full, having dropped 40% after a very dry summer, which highlights the vulnerability of the region's water supply.

How does the water usage in Washington County compare to other regions in the West?

Washington County uses three times as much water per capita as the national average, with much of that water used for landscaping, including lawns and golf courses.

What is one suggestion from conservationists to address Washington County's water problem?

Conservationists suggest that Washington County could reduce its water consumption, as it currently uses more water than necessary, and focus on more sustainable practices.

Why is green grass considered essential for St. George's growth?

Green grass is essential for St. George's growth because it is a key feature in attracting residents, especially families, who want green spaces for recreation. Without it, local parks and golf courses would turn to dirt, reducing the area’s appeal.

What is the debate surrounding growth and water use in Washington County?

The debate revolves around whether the county should continue its rapid growth and rely on additional water resources, such as the Lake Powell pipeline, or whether it should halt growth to conserve water and protect the environment.