Low Impact Development in Utah: Progress, Constraints, and Future Outlook

Population in Utah is projected to nearly triple in the next 50 years, to more than 6 million people. Although Utah has a small overall population compared to some other states, several regions of the state rank among the fastest growing locations in the country, with the Washington County area in the southwest corner of the state consistently ranked near the top. With massive urban growth projected, the ecological and economic benefits from sustainable development are potentially substantial. Widespread application of low impact development (LID) in Utah has been limited by many factors including lack of knowledge, institutional resistance, and policy restrictions. However, implementation of LID practices is emerging due to public and private interest in sustainable development, installation of demonstration sites, and increased guidance and training provided by local and state entities, and universities. LID is poised to be a key element in the current sustainable development push in Utah. This paper reviews the current status of LID in Utah, describes the limitations and trends, and summarizes constraints and recommendations for future LID expansion. Specific topics include infiltration practices in a large-scale development, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) driving LID, overview of LID practices in Utah, and the emergence of university-led education programs to produce LID-savvy graduates in planning and engineering design.