Truth On Tap: Las Vegas Leads In Water Conservation

GLOBAL LEADER IN WATER CONSERVATION

Despite what you might have heard in the national media, Las Vegas is not running out of water. In fact, Las Vegas is the most water secure city in the desert southwest. You may also be surprised to learn that Southern Nevada is a global leader in water conservation, recycling and reusing virtually every drop of water used indoors. Our community’s commitment to conservation enables us to continue growing, even as we decrease our overall water use. Las Vegas is the #6 ranked Most Sustainable City in America according to Battleface, and our commitment to water conservation is one of the primary contributing factors. Get to know the real Las Vegas, by reading on to demystify any misconceptions, and learn how our access to water can help your business thrive.

58% decrease in community water use even as the city’s population doubled

62%: amount of water allocation community used in 2023

40% of water used is recycled and reused

45 billion: gallons of water saved due to conservation efforts since 2002

With Limited Resources, How Can We Continue to Grow?

Recognizing the need to reduce the region’s water use, the Southern Nevada Water Authority, which manages the region’s water resources, in 2002 implemented one of the most progressive and comprehensive water conservation plans in the nation. Mandatory conservation measures include seasonal watering restrictions, golf course water budgets, a grass replacement program, wastewater penalties, and changes to municipal codes that significantly reduce the impact of new development on our water supply.

See How Las Vegas Conserves

Learn more about how Las Vegas became the most water secure city in the desert southwest

WATER RECAPTURE & RECYCLE

Southern Nevada is one of the few places on the planet that recycles and reuses all indoor water.

RETURN FLOW CREDITS

The region earns return flow credits as we return recycled water back to Lake Mead, allowing us to use additional water and stretch our water supply.

THE THIRD STRAW AND DEADPOOL

Even if Lake Mead drops below the minimum level to release water downstream (deadpool), new infrastructure will keep pumping water to the Las Vegas Valley.

PLANNING = SECURITY

The SNWA has a 50-year resource plan that is reviewed annually and provides a comprehensive overview of the region’s projected water demand and the resources available.

One Regional, Unified Voice

The Southern Nevada Water Authority was formed in 1991 by a cooperative agreement among seven water and waste agencies that collectively serve nearly 2.3 million residents and more than 43 million annual visitors. The agency is responsible for water treatment and delivery, as well as acquiring and managing long-term water resources for Southern Nevada. Since its inception, the SNWA has worked to secure new water resources for Southern Nevada, manage existing and future water supplies, construct and operate regional water facilities, and promote conservation.

Protecting Southern Nevada’s Water Supply

“Our community has blazed the trail for urban conservation both nationally and internationally by reducing our consumptive use from the river while simultaneously adding more people to our valley.”

-John Entsminger, General Manager, Southern Nevada Water Authority

Water Conservation Partners

Water conservation is crucial for preserving our most vital resource, ensuring a sustainable supply for future generations, and protecting the environment. By using water wisely, we can reduce waste, support ecosystems, and help communities thrive.

Desert Research Institute (DRI)

DRI is a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research.

WaterStart

WaterStart provides a channel for accelerating the adoption of innovative water technologies driven by the needs of water agencies and large water consumers.