Great Salt Lake on the Brink of Collapse: An Emergency Call to Action
Great Salt Lake is facing a severe threat, with its disappearance having a negative impact on Utah's public health, environment, and economy.
The lake is a keystone ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere, providing minerals, jobs, habitat, and food to millions.
Excessive water use and unsustainable practices are causing the lake to shrink, and it could disappear within five years.
The consequences of losing Great Salt Lake could be widespread, leading to air and water pollution, Endangered Species Act listings, and economic decline.
To reverse the lake's decline, an additional million acre-feet of water is needed each year, which can be achieved through cutting consumptive water use.
Conservation is the most effective and cost-efficient way to save the lake, and there are successful examples throughout the region.
Trust and coordination between farmers, cities, and policymakers is necessary to implement an emergency rescue plan.
The governor's office and legislature need to take immediate action to implement a watershed-wide rescue, with funding and support for conservation and water shepherding.
Every water user and manager must do their part in conserving water and supporting the state's efforts to save Great Salt Lake for future generations.
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