Introduction

Anna Mcentire

Water challenges in Utah are wide-ranging and deeply interconnected. They
encompass concerns about quality, conservation, infrastructure, agricultural
use, municipal growth, and new legal and policy tools. At the same time, water
embodies an equally wide range of human values. Utahns view water through
ecological, economic, and cultural lenses, and these perspectives shape expectations for policy.

Research on public opinion and engagement around Great Salt Lake demonstrates that people are highly concerned about the future of Utah’s waters and want meaningful action taken. Importantly, these concerns do not coalesce around a single frame, but rather span multiple values—from protecting wildlife and ensuring future generations’ wellbeing, to sustaining agriculture, industry, and recreation. This diversity of perspectives has created broad support for innovative legislation in recent years.

Equally critical are the ways people engage. Collaborative efforts across state agencies, universities, conservation groups, media, and communities—called boundary work—have created spaces where diverse voices can connect and reinforce action. The result is a more resilient system of decision-making that reflects both public concern and institutional leadership.

Utah’s future water security will depend on harnessing this breadth of values and engagement. Doing so will enable the state to sustain reliable supplies, safeguard ecosystems, and maintain public trust.

 

Figure 2.I.Value Frames Utahns Associate with Great Salt Lake

 

 

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