As water scarcity becomes an increasingly pressing issue in Utah, state legislators are gearing up to mandate that municipalities adopt water conservation ordinances, particularly for new construction projects. This initiative comes in the wake of the alarming decline of the Great Salt Lake, which has prompted serious discussions among political leaders about sustainable water management and conservation strategies. Representative Doug Owens, a Democrat from Millcreek, is spearheading this legislative effort with the aim of ensuring that communities across the state make significant changes in how they approach landscaping and water usage. The issue of water conservation has become a focal point for many Utah residents, especially as they witness the dwindling water levels in the Great Salt Lake. Owens is keen on introducing a bill that would serve as a catalyst for local governments to implement necessary ordinances to promote water-wise landscaping practices. This legislation is crucial not only for preserving the environment but also for preparing for future water shortages. "In the long run, you're going to save water, and we're going to have that landscape in the long run because we're not going to have water for landscaping in five or ten years," Owens noted in an interview. One notable example of effective water conservation can be seen in Terraine, a new residential development in West Jordan. The community has adopted a model of water-wise landscaping, prioritizing the use of native plants that require significantly less water than traditional lawns. Ty McCutcheon, a partner in Third Cadence, the firm behind Terraine, explained that the development is designed to utilize approximately 70% less water compared to standard residential areas. "As we think about the residential environment, the place we use the most water is in our yards. If we can design yards that are both beautiful and conserve water, we can incorporate all that into our future," McCutcheon stated. For homeowners like Bentlee and Stephen Edgington, the decision to choose Terraine was influenced by the community's commitment to sustainability. They expressed their satisfaction with the native landscaping in their front yard, which features a variety of plants that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly. Bentlee Edgington remarked, "I really believe in sustainability and I know about Utah's water issues. And also, it's freaking beautiful." Despite the positive steps taken by developments like Terraine, the state of Utah faces a significant challenge, as data reveals that a staggering 95 communities within the Great Salt Lake basin have yet to adopt any form of water conservation ordinance. This lack of action has raised concerns among lawmakers, who believe that without immediate intervention, the state may face dire consequences in the near future. The Utah League of Cities & Towns, which represents local governments, is currently evaluating Owens' proposed legislation but has not yet taken an official position. Owens has indicated that he is exploring various strategies to encourage compliance, including offering financial incentives and potentially establishing penalties for communities that fail to adopt water conservation measures. He remarked on the delicate balance required in crafting this bill, stating, "That's the delicate dance in the bill that we'll have to work out is how much can we get away with. Trying to put some love and affection with, 'please hurry up and do this because we need the water.'" The urgency surrounding this legislation is heightened by the looming 2034 Olympics, which will take place in Utah and place additional strain on the state's water resources. As the state prepares for this major event, the call for sustainable practices is louder than ever. Owens and other lawmakers are hopeful that the proposed legislation will instigate meaningful changes across Utah's municipalities, encouraging them to prioritize water conservation and sustainable landscaping practices. With the legislative session set to begin later this month, all eyes will be on the discussions that unfold as lawmakers consider the necessity and implications of mandatory water conservation ordinances. The Edgingtons, as well as many other residents, are hopeful for a future where sustainable practices become the norm rather than the exception. As Bentlee Edgington expressed, "People want to be part of the solution. They're looking for easy ways to do that." This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the environmental challenges facing the Great Salt Lake and to foster a culture of sustainability in Utah. Through collaborative efforts between lawmakers, developers, and residents, there is a shared goal of ensuring that future generations can enjoy a thriving, water-rich environment in the state. The outcome of this legislative session will likely set the tone for how Utah navigates its water challenges in the years to come.