The Department of Environmental Quality State of the Environment report highlights the many accomplishments and successes our agency has had throughout the previous year.
Click the tabs below to view each Division’s metrics, success stories, and quotes from partners.
Division of Air Quality
The Division of Air Quality (DAQ) works to ensure that Utah’s air quality meets health and visibility standards by implementing policies and plans, issuing permits, conducting research, and verifying compliance with state and federal air quality rules. Over the past year, they have accomplished this through partnerships with industry and small business, process analysis and improvements, and community engagement to address neighborhood-level air quality concerns.
“The Charge Your Yard incentive program has given landscapers an invaluable opportunity to address and overcome their concerns about battery products. Businesses have been able to experience zero exhaust, low maintenance, high power products at little or no cost. Wilkinson Supply and our customers are very grateful for the generosity of the [DAQ] for providing this opportunity. Wilkinson Supply has recognized that the outdoor power equipment industry will be moving more and more towards battery powered products as time continues. We were very excited about the benefits Charge Your Yard would allow us to offer to our customers. We were extremely grateful to be selected to be a participating retailer and recycling center.”
Katie Wilkinson, Wilkinson Supply
Success Story
DAQ Partners With Small Business to Reduce Pollution
Emissions modeling estimates the amount of pollution produced by operating a gas-powered, 2-stroke leaf blower for one hour is equivalent to driving from Ogden to Disneyland – that’s 727 miles! Emissions from 2-stroke lawn equipment, including leaf blowers and string trimmers, contribute significantly to the formation of ground-level ozone across Utah’s Wasatch Front. Ozone is formed when nitrogen oxides (NOx) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) combine in the presence of sunlight and is a trigger for increased respiratory illnesses.
In an effort to reduce ozone pollution and its harmful effects, DAQ created an incentive program called Charge Your Yard to encourage lawn maintenance businesses to exchange their gas-powered equipment with zero-emission, battery-electric units. Partnerships from local metal recyclers and small-engine retailers were vital to the success of the program. One particular retailer, Wilkinson Supply, located in Ogden, went above and beyond to best serve participants of Charge Your Yard.
Wilkinson provided exceptional service to lawn maintenance businesses by assisting them with program registration and collecting their old gas-powered equipment for recycling. They also provided invaluable feedback to our agency and enhanced the program with their industry perspective.
The Grounds Manager for the Little America and Grand America hotels in Salt Lake City, Dirk VanWagoner, recycled 6 gas blowers and 6 gas trimmers in exchange for new, electric equipment from Wilkinson Supply. When asked about his experience with electric equipment, he spoke positively, “I love the convenience of battery power. We love the weed eaters and blowers. We love the quietness. I love not dealing with gas issues, and we have the power we need. Between Little America and Grand America, we have about $14,000 of battery equipment. The Charge Your Yard program was the tipper for me. There is no way I would have gone that way without it. It was a neat program.”
As a result of the 2023 partnership between DAQ and Wilkinson Supply, 53 lawn care businesses recycled 226 string trimmers and 95 leaf blowers, removing 1.25 tons of air pollution from the local airshed.
“The mission of the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, ‘Safeguarding and improving Utah’s air, land and water through balanced regulation,’ is admirable,” Katie Wilkinson said. “This was showcased in the Charge Your Yard incentive program. Wilkinson Supply has been grateful for the focus on desired results, rather than a focus on policy.” DAQ’s partnership with small businesses like Wilkinson Supply is a win-win for the local economy and a healthy and prosperous Utah.
Division of Drinking Water
The Division of Drinking Water (DDW) protects drinking water by supporting the safe design and operation of Utah’s public drinking water systems. Its goal is to provide safe drinking water at every tap in every building in Utah. The Division does this by working cooperatively with drinking water professionals and the public to ensure a safe and reliable supply of drinking water.
“Having had the opportunity both professionally and personally to engage with multiple government agencies, DEQ continually exceeded my expectations in terms of their support to our small District on a number of different fronts: from pulling together a Source Protection Plan to collaborating on a myriad of items related to a new water treatment plant and everything in between.”
Jean Brill, Greenhills Water District
“The DEQ has been amazing to work with. They have proven to me and my town that they truly care about the people, their water supply and well being. They recognized that I was newly elected as Mayor and I was trying to do everything correctly, be transparent and be honest. They were willing to help out even though we are a small town. The DEQ truly saved our town.”
Mayor Mike Farrar, Apple Valley Town
Success Story
Fulfilling Our Vision for a Lead-Free Utah
In 2024, the Division of Drinking Water made significant and meaningful progress in ensuring that all Utahns have safe, lead-free drinking water through the “Lead Free Utah” program and associated initiatives
A Smart Start: Lead-Free Learning
A critical achievement of the “Lead Free Utah” program was the successful implementation of lead sampling in public K-12 schools. Over 41,000 samples were collected from more than 1,260 schools statewide. Using this data from the sample results, we awarded $1,501,544.38 in contracts to school districts to reduce or eliminate lead in over 5,124 taps and fixtures that tested above the lead action level. This funding ensures that students across Utah will have access to safer drinking water, reflecting the state’s commitment to protecting its children’s health and well-being.
In addition to its work with schools, we undertook a major project to help 588 public water systems complete their required Lead Service Line Inventories. By the October 2024 deadline, over 94% of systems had completed their inventories.
This success was driven by the Division’s robust support efforts, including:
- Assistance Programs:
- Expedited Assistance: Funding of up to $100,000 was made available as 0% interest loans or grants, with grants reserved for systems meeting hardship criteria.
- Small Systems Assistance Program: Through this program, technical experts from an engineering firm provided no-cost assistance to small community water systems, supporting inventory completion and replacement planning.
- Outreach:
The Division prioritized education and communication, delivering:- Two educational webinars
- Monthly emails and direct calls to water systems
- Presentations and tabling at conferences to provide outreach and technical assistance
- Tools for Completion:
To assist water systems with the development of their inventories, the Division developed various tools and guidance, such as:- Technical Methods Guidance for inventories
- Customer and public notification templates
- An interactive map for verified service lines to meet public accessibility requirements
Through a combination of funding, education, and technical assistance, Utah has become a model of proactive collaboration and commitment to public health. The “Lead Free Utah” program and the Division’s work with water systems have laid a strong foundation for a safer, healthier future for Utah communities.
Division of Environmental Response & Remediation
The Division of Environmental Response and Remediation (DERR) works within communities to prevent and respond to environmental contamination and restore land to beneficial use. They accomplish this through a wide variety of programs, including those that facilitate the cleanup of contaminated properties for development, oversee Superfund site cleanup and community outreach, and prevent and minimize releases from petroleum storage tanks.
“The Division of Environmental Response and Remediation has been a strategic partner in driving the health and recovery of historic buildings in our city. They have proactively informed us of opportunities which have been critical in our revitalization efforts and their assistance has been invaluable in ensuring these buildings, some nearing 100 years old, remain an active and vital part of our vibrant, historic community.”
Mayor Lenise Peterman, Helper
Success Stories
The Point Redevelopment: Transforming a Historic Site into a Vibrant Community Hub
Once the site of the historic Utah State Prison, The Point is now a shining example of environmental remediation and visionary urban redevelopment. For over 70 years, the sprawling prison complex housed thousands of inmates, but in July 2022, the facility closed its doors. The transformation of this 600-acre site along Interstate 15 is a testament to what thoughtful planning, sustainable practices, and community investment can achieve.
Environmental Cleanup: A Critical First Step
Before redevelopment could begin, significant environmental cleanup was required. In October 2022, a petroleum release from an underground storage tank (UST) system was discovered during site assessments. This system, which had supported the prison’s backup generator and boiler room, posed an environmental challenge.
The Division of Environmental Response and Remediation’s Utah Environmental Assurance Program (EAP), funded by petroleum storage tank fees, provided critical support for the cleanup. Coverage under the EAP works much like an insurance policy, offering up to $2 million in coverage. To date, the program has dispersed $135 million. For the prison cleanup, the EAP reimbursed $300,000 in costs.
By October 2024, extensive remediation work has been completed, including:
- Excavating 1,320 cubic yards of petroleum-impacted soil.
- Conducting subsurface investigations with 20 soil borings and groundwater sampling.
- Replacing contaminated soil with clean fill to restore the site.
The successful cleanup has paved the way for The Point’s redevelopment. A “No Further Action” request has been submitted, marking the official conclusion of the cleanup effort.
A Bright Future Ahead
The Point is more than an example of a successful environmental clean up and land reuse; it is a symbol of Utah’s commitment to sustainable growth and community well-being. By blending historical preservation, environmental stewardship, and forward-thinking urban design, this site is poised to become a thriving hub for living, working, and recreation.
Redwood Road Dump: From Contaminated Land to a Community of Hope
The transformation of the Redwood Road Dump site into “The Other Side Village” is an example of how environmental remediation and community planning can intersect to create a lasting impact. Located at 1850 West Indiana Avenue in Salt Lake City, this 8-acre site was once part of the former Redwood Road Dump. While it did not receive municipal landfill material, the land had historically been vacant and used by the city for green waste processing.
Voluntary Cleanup: A Catalyst for Change
In May 2022, a Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP) application was submitted to the Utah Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Environmental Response and Remediation. The goal: to prepare the site for its future as “The Other Side Village,” a master-planned community dedicated to healing and providing homes for people in need.
Site characterization efforts included extensive testing of soil, groundwater, and soil gas samples to assess environmental conditions. This data informed the development of a comprehensive Remedial Action Plan. By 2024, the cleanup efforts were substantially completed, and included:
- Removing contaminated soils and debris and replacing with clean fill to bring the site to grade.
- Groundwater Management during construction under a Division of Water Quality UPDES Permit.
- Preventing surface water migration onto the site.
- Implementing vapor mitigation strategies to address potential vapor intrusion.
These efforts ensured that the site was safe and ready for its new purpose, showcasing the effectiveness of the VCP in turning brownfields into assets for the community.
A New Beginning: The Other Side Village
In 2024, “The Other Side Village” officially opened its doors, welcoming its first residents. This innovative community offers a supportive environment for individuals transitioning out of chronic homelessness. The success of the cleanup and establishment of the Village demonstrates how strong partnerships and environmental stewardship can lead to meaningful social impact.
Division of Waste Management & Radiation Control
The Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control (WMRC) ensures the proper management of solid and hazardous waste, guarantees the safe management of radioactive materials, provides education and outreach to industry and communities, and promotes recycling efforts.
They accomplish this by working closely with facilities to clean up waste-contaminated areas and establish permit and licensing conditions that ensure that waste treatment, storage, and disposal practices protect human health and the environment. Health physicists safeguard citizens from exposure to radiation through equipment inspections and oversight of the industrial and medical uses of radioactive materials.
“The partnership that the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control has established with, not only, the waste industry but also with Wasatch Integrated Waste Management District has been so refreshing. Of course, they maintain their stewardship of the environment, but they also offer the individual facility support that helps to maximize operations. The Division is willing to assist with anything from big picture programs like diversion to the smaller, technical aspects like reporting portals. Nothing is too small, and the help comes with a smile.”
Preston Lee, Operations Manager
Wasatch Integrated Waste
Success Stories
Solid Waste Program: Strengthening Oversight for Oil and Gas Waste Management
Utah has long been a leader in energy production, ranking as the 10th highest oil-producing state in the nation. With this distinction comes the responsibility of managing the waste generated by the oil and gas industry. Historically, this responsibility fell under the purview of the Utah Division of Oil, Gas, and Mining (DOGM). However, a legislative change set in motion a three-year collaborative effort between DOGM and the Solid Waste Section to transition regulatory oversight of Exploration and Production (E&P) waste facilities to the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control.
This transition culminated in the development of two critical new solid waste rules:
- Utah Administrative Code R315-321: This rule establishes Class VII Exploration and Production Waste Landfill Requirements, providing protective standards for managing waste generated during exploration, development, and production in the oil and gas industry.
- Utah Administrative Code R315-322: This rule governs Solid Waste Surface Impoundment Requirements, applying to nonhazardous waste management facilities that accept high-liquid waste into surface impoundments and are required to have a permit from the Division.
These rules, which went into effect on October 15, 2024, demonstrate Utah’s ability to protect its environment while supporting a vital industry. By setting clear and enforceable standards, the new regulations ensure that oil and gas waste is managed safely and responsibly.
Hazardous Waste Program: A Milestone Permit Renewal for the Utah Test and Training Range
In October 2024, the Utah Test and Training Range (UTTR) received a 10-year renewal of its RCRA Part B operating permit. This milestone represents the culmination of extensive collaboration among UTTR, the Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control, the Department of Defense, and EPA Region 8.
A key focus was revising the language surrounding Open Burn and Open Detonation (OB/OD) Alternative Technology reporting requirements. By working closely with stakeholders, the Division ensured that the new permit aligns with the highest standards of environmental protection while accommodating the unique operational needs of the UTTR.
Hazardous Waste Cleanup Program: Driving Revitalization Across Utah
The Hazardous Waste Cleanup Program (ECP) had a productive year, playing a critical role in transforming hazardous waste sites into opportunities for revitalization across Utah. Over the past year, the program worked on over 40 Environmental Cleanup Program (ECP) sites, facilitating environmental investigations, coordinating remediation efforts, and supporting redevelopment plans.
An exciting new development this year has been the eligibility of ECP sites to apply for Revolving Loan Funds managed by the Salt Lake County Office of Regional Development and governed by the Wasatch Brownfields Coalition Board. This funding mechanism provides much-needed financial support to drive cleanup and redevelopment projects, fostering stronger partnerships between public agencies and private developers.
Community Portal: Enhancing Access and Efficiency for Customers
This year marked a significant step in improving customer service with the launch of the new Community Portal. Designed to streamline interactions and improve access to critical services, the portal offers an all-in-one platform for submitting applications, viewing application statuses, submitting required reports, and making payments online.
Currently, the Community Portal is live for the Hazardous Waste, X-ray, and Solid Waste Programs, with plans to expand these services to all remaining Division programs in the near future. By providing a more user-friendly and efficient digital interface, the portal empowers customers to manage their interactions with the Division seamlessly and at their convenience.
Division of Water Quality
The Division of Water Quality (DWQ) safeguards Utah’s surface and groundwater through programs designed to protect, maintain, and enhance the quality of Utah’s waters. To ensure that the state’s waters meet the requirements of the Clean Water Act and Utah Water Quality Act.
They accomplish this by developing water-quality standards and watershed protection plans, issuing permits, providing construction loans and grants, responding to environmental spills that impact waterways, and partnering with health departments to address water quality and health issues.
Success Stories
Jordan River’s Big Bend: Success in Progress
The vision of a restored Jordan River at Big Bend has been decades in the making. The legacy of the Sharon Steel mining operation cast a long shadow over this stretch of the river, leaving behind environmental contamination and a degraded ecosystem.
Recognizing this, the US Department of the Interior secured mitigation funds for restoration efforts, but the scale of the challenge and the complexity of the project presented significant obstacles. Early improvement efforts included the creation of an urban pond and stabilization of riverbanks. However, water quality remained impaired by elevated levels of dissolved solids, impacting aquatic life and the overall health of the ecosystem.
A dedicated coalition of partners including the Utah Division of Water Quality, West Jordan City, the National Audubon Society, the Utah Conservation Corps, the Jordan River Commission, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, renewed their commitment to restoring the river’s health.
In March 2023, the coalition applied to the America the Beautiful Challenge Program with a comprehensive restoration plan that addressed the river’s ecological needs while also providing valuable community benefits.
In November 2023, the news of the $4.9 million grant award was met with jubilation. This significant funding award, combined with additional contributions from stakeholders now exceeding $7 million, has injected new life into the project.
The restoration efforts at Big Bend are now in full swing. The project aims to:
- Revitalize the River Channel: Restore over half a mile of the channelized river to a more natural, meandering state, improving habitat for fish and other aquatic life.
- Enhance Riparian Zones: Plant over 10,000 native plants, creating a vibrant and diverse riparian ecosystem that provides shade, improves water quality, and supports wildlife.
- Restore Wetland Habitats: Reclaim and restore 250 acres of grassland and wet meadows at the Jordan River Delta, benefiting a wide range of wildlife, including at-risk species.
- Connect Communities to Nature: Open up 22 acres of restored habitat for public access, providing opportunities for environmental education, fishing, hiking, and other recreational activities
This project is not just about restoring the river; it’s about restoring a sense of place for the community and of stewardship to ensure long-term sustainability of the restored ecosystem. This “success in progress” journey highlights how collaborative conservation efforts are leading to significant environmental and community benefits for the Jordan River and surrounding habitat.
Restoring Hanksville’s Sewer Lagoons: A Community Resilience Success Story
In September 2021, Hanksville Town faced a major environmental and infrastructure challenge when a flash flooding event along the Fremont River overwhelmed the community’s sewer lagoon system. The floodwaters overtopped the lagoon embankments, eroding dikes, damaging headwork and transfer structures, and depositing silt into the ponds before discharging back into the river. This catastrophic event left the town in urgent need of funding to repair the lagoons and restore essential infrastructure to protect both the environment and public health.
The Utah Water Quality Board stepped in with a comprehensive funding package to support the repairs. The project received $1.69 million in grant funding and a $350,000 zero interest loan, ensuring the residents of Hanksville could maintain affordable monthly rates while rebuilding critical infrastructure.
This collaborative effort between the town and the Water Quality Board not only restored the lagoon system but also demonstrated a commitment to community resilience and environmental protection.