The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) has entered into a partnership with the Utah Office of the Great Salt Lake Commissioner to address the declining water levels of the Great Salt Lake. This collaboration comes after the lake reached its lowest recorded level in 2022.

The memorandum of understanding between PERC and the Commissioner's Office outlines strategies to restore the lake's levels. PERC, known for its work in water rights and conservation, will leverage its expertise to analyze data on water usage and develop solutions.

One key initiative is developing a comprehensive model to identify opportunities for water conservation. This model aims to promote voluntary water leasing as an efficient alternative to mandates or forced reductions. "The Great Salt Lake is an incredible natural resource at risk of disappearing completely," said PERC CEO Brian Yablonski. "We’re thrilled to collaborate with the State of Utah to develop a tool that will prioritize voluntary water transfers, compensate users fairly, and restore historic lake levels."

PERC's approach is grounded in research and academic standards, facilitating cooperation among state officials, farmers, and conservationists. The goal is to find voluntary leasing opportunities that align with the objectives set out in the Commissioner’s Great Salt Lake Strategic Plan.

Tim Davis, Deputy Commissioner for the Great Salt Lake, expressed appreciation for PERC's involvement: “We value PERC’s creative thinking and expertise as we work with water users to voluntarily get more water to the Great Salt Lake. They will equip us with the information we need to make meaningful progress toward getting the lake to the healthy range.”