Water resource management and land use planning have historically been carried out separately. Yet, where and how we build has implications for our water resources: development drives water use and can impact our water quality and availability. As Utah navigates significant drought impacts, it is essential for local jurisdictions to fundamentally rethink the relationship between development and water supply, and to assume new leadership roles. In this session, we will share how the Utah Division of Water Resources’ new Growing Water Smart Workshops can support land use planners, elected officials, and water resource managers to create water smart communities by implementing strategies that address local and regional water challenges. We’ll also hear from two community case studies at different stages of their water and land use integration journey to learn more about why they’re prioritizing integrated planning, what strategies they’re using, and their results thus far. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of integrated water and land use planning, how to implement new state regulations (e.g., SB 110), and the resources available to support them in growing water smart.

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