Utah officials unveil new online water rights navigation tool for public access

Navigating water rights in Utah just got easier, thanks to a new interactive map unveiled during the Executive Water Finance Board meeting on May 5, 2025. This tool is designed to help residents of the Benjamin Subdivision and surrounding areas locate their water rights with just a few clicks.

The map, accessible at waterrights.utah.gov, allows users to explore various layers of information, including points of diversion for water sources. Users can identify their specific water rights by clicking on red markers representing wells and blue markers for surface sources. Each point reveals essential details such as ownership, water quantity, and filing dates, making it a valuable resource for anyone involved in water rights management.

During the meeting, officials emphasized the importance of transparency, noting that all documents related to water rights are public records. This includes a comprehensive file room in Salt Lake City, where residents can access historical documents dating back to the initial applications for water rights. The database is continually updated, ensuring that users have access to the most current information.

In addition to the map, the meeting highlighted the upcoming mailing of water user claims scheduled for May 22. This initiative aims to streamline the process for water right owners to verify their claims. If the information is accurate, owners can simply sign and return the claim, further simplifying the adjudication process.

The meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance public access to water rights information, reflecting a commitment to transparency and user engagement in Utah's water management system. As the state continues to navigate complex water rights issues, tools like the new map and the water user claim process are crucial for empowering residents and ensuring fair access to this vital resource.