The health of the Great Salt Lake and the vitality of Utah’s agricultural community are inextricably linked, and we are using solutions that support both.
Recent studies that single out agriculture — particularly alfalfa farming — as the primary cause of the Great Salt Lake’s decline are counterproductive, as they create a false dichotomy, pitting the lake against agriculture. This approach ignores the reality that farmers are essential partners in finding sustainable solutions, and their water and land stewardship are vital to a thriving environment.
When the Great Salt Lake Strategic Plan was developed, it kept in mind all water users and everyone who is impacted by the lake. That includes every Utahn in some way. That means it will require participation from every Utahn to help save the lake. It cannot fall on one industry, agency, business or person. Protecting and preserving the lake is a tall order and requires us to come together for solutions.
Amita Kaundel, a 2023 Utah Specialty Crop Grant recipient and professor at Utah State University, along with her team, is conducting research to improve the health of native plants and promote water-efficient farming and landscaping.
velutinus (snowbrush ceanothus) and Shepherdia utahensis ‘Torrey’ (hybrid buffaloberry). These plants are not only ideal for water-efficient landscaping but also provide a sustainable solution by fixing nitrogen in the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
