Gov. Cox’s suggestion that Utahns save pasta water to fight the drought is laughable when agriculture uses approximately 82% of Utah’s diverted water.
The math is clear. Alfalfa alone consumes roughly 68% of our water yet contributes less than 0.2% to our GDP. We are draining rivers for a crop that barely impacts our economy.
Worse, we export this water. Much of our hay goes to China and Saudi Arabia — nations that protect their own aquifers while depleting ours.
Municipal and industrial use combined is a fraction compared to agriculture. Even if residents used zero water, it wouldn’t fix the crisis. Governor, until you address the alfalfa elephant you farm, my pasta water is going down the drain.
Glenn Barrow
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West Haven