Press Releases

Today, Representative Celeste Maloy (UT-02) congratulated Washington County and the Washington County Water Conservancy District for receiving a $20.5 million grant from the Bureau of Reclamation. The funds will support the district’s Regional Reuse System, a $1 billion system that includes new and expanded treatment facilities, reservoirs, pipelines and other infrastructure needed to provide water to more than 200,000 county residents.

“Washington County is at the forefront of water conservation to make sure our residents and economy can continue to thrive," said Rep. Maloy. "The Regional Reuse System is exactly the kind of innovative solution to a dry climate that will help secure Southern Utah's future. It is great to see these federal dollars going to the right place.”

“We are planning for a hotter and drier climate with increased unpredictability in the availability of fresh water,” said Zach Renstrom, general manager of the Washington County Water Conservancy District. “Reuse water is critical to providing a reliable supply for our expanding economy and growing population. We expect about half of the water our communities need over the next 20 years to come from our Regional Reuse System, a robust $1 billion system that will include new and expanded treatment facilities, four storage reservoirs, 60 miles of pipeline and multiple pump stations. The federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will be put to good use and will be of great benefit to Utah and Washington County.”

BACKGROUND:

Utah is one of the fastest growing and driest states in the country and has been working to conserve water with limited resources. Due to new water efficiency standards, water rate increases, and rebate programs like grass replacement, Utah’s per capita water usage has

decreased significantly. Washington County’s Regional Reuse System will further conserve water and is essential for Utah’s future.