UTAH DROUGHT

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints looks for ways to reduce water usage across it’s properties

Jun 22, 2022, 5:23 PM

Multiple Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints buildings are featured in the photo. The churc...

The John Witmer Historical Association claims to have released the first photo of, founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Joseph Smith. Photo: Getty Images

SALT LAKE CITY- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement today about cutting back on water usage across their properties.

Church Media Relations Manager, Kelly Smoot, issued a press release referring to the different circumstances members of the church live in.

“… throughout the world live in a variety of environmental circumstances. In one area, there may be serious drought, while in another wet conditions can cause significant flooding. In all regions and circumstances, we teach that we have a responsibility to care for and gratefully use what God has given, avoid wasting resources and wisely use the bounty of the earth to care for one another,” she said.

Also, Smoot addresses the drought much of the Western United States is experiencing.

How they plan to combat the drought

“Water conservation efforts continue to include the expansion of smart controllers, hydrometers, rain sensors, drip irrigation, and use of secondary or reclaimed water. Additionally, we have adjusted watering schedules to meet local government guidelines, and we continue to monitor the conditions of all of Church properties,” she said. 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reduced watering lawns at church buildings and the grounds at the temples. Smoot said some of the lawns will be allowed to brown and go dormant to reduce water usage. 

Historic church sites have reduced their water consumption by one-third.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints plans making landscape changes to permanently reduce water needs for their properties. They are planning to use lawns requiring less water, managing the water they use. They also want more native plants to beautify their properties.

“We all play a part in preserving the critical resources needed to sustain life — especially water — and we invite others to join us in reducing water use wherever possible. We gladly join with friends of other faiths in prayer to our Heavenly Father for rain and respite from the devastating drought,” said Smoot.

According to the Utah Division of Water Resources, UDWR, most of the state of Utah is in the category of ‘extreme drought.’

UDWR updates drought conditions and classifications weekly. Additionally, they fall under four different categories, moderate, severe, extreme, and exceptional drought. 

Bonneville International Corporation, the company that owns KSL NewsRadio, is a subsidiary of Deseret Management Corporation, which is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

More:

 

 

 

 

 

 

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Send it to the KSL NewsRadio team here.

Utah Drought

Drought status: virgin river shown, harmful algae has been found in the lower part of the river in ...

Adam Small

Part of Utah reaches severe drought, but change is coming

According to recent data from the U.S. Drought Monitor, parts of Utah has reached a severe drought status.

1 month ago

Shrinking Great Salt Lake...

Mariah Maynes

Compass Minerals, State of Utah reach deal that will send water to Great Salt Lake

Compass Minerals and Utah land managers announced a deal that will send over 200,000 acre feet of water to Great Salt Lake.

2 months ago

A powerful string of thunderstorms moved north across northern Utah. Thunderstorms left behind an i...

Britt Johnson

Recent Utah rain sends the state closer to average water levels

Utah's recent summer rain brought the state's water levels up. Now, the state is extremely close to average water levels.

3 months ago

A sprinkler waters a field in Utah...

LINDSAY AERTS, KSLTV

Utah DNR now tracks groundwater trends online, some concern over depleting levels

A new online tool is helping gather data on Utah’s groundwater levels, after depleting groundwater levels in southern and southwestern Utah.

3 months ago

water conservation...

Ben Winslow, FOX 13

One Utah city will offer prizes to get people to conserve more water

The city of Millcreek hopes to encourage its residents to conserve water with a new game that offers prizes.

3 months ago

Swimmers cool off in the pool at the Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center in Cottonwood Heights on ...

Britt Johnson

Getting a backyard pool? Make sure your builder has experience

Planning on having a pool built in your backyard? It might be a good idea to double check that your builder is experienced.

3 months ago

Sponsored Articles

an IT tech looks at a laptop in front of a server network...

Comcast Business

Tips to protect yourself from phishing attacks

Check out this resource from Comcast Business to learn more about phishing attacks and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim of one.

A surprise gift, wrapped and ready to bring holiday cheer! Whether for Christmas, a birthday, or an...

Western Nut

10 Holiday Gift Ideas to cover everyone on your list

This guide is for you if you need holiday gift ideas that will make a lasting impression. 

Stressed young woman checking bills, taxes, bank account balance and calculating expenses in the li...

The Law Offices of Jordan F. Wilcox

Why you should speak to a Utah lawyer about longstanding IRS tax issues

Hiring a lawyer to navigate longstanding IRS tax issues can make a significant difference in achieving a favorable resolution.

4 construction workers fixing roof against clouds blue sky, install shingles at the top of the hous...

Chipman Roofing

Weather the storms by maintaining your roof

By taking the time to assess your roof's condition and make repairs as needed, you maintain the longevity of your home's stability.

Tax Harassment...

The Law Offices of Jordan F. Wilcox

Feeling intimidated by the IRS? 6 Essential facts you should know.

If you are receiving threatening letters and wage garnishments from the IRS, hiring an attorney can help ensure your rights are protected.

Photo courtesy of Nightmare on 13th...

Nightmare on 13th

Here’s why Nightmare on 13th is the best haunted house in Utah

Fall brings Halloween, and Halloween brings Haunted Houses. There’s no better Haunted House than Nightmare on 13th – here’s why!

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints looks for ways to reduce water usage across it’s properties