Prior to the Governor's formal Drought Emergency Declaration, the State Drought Response Plan was already in operation. The State Drought Review and Reporting Committee has met on a regular basis, since the onset of drought conditions, to be briefed on the statewide drought situation and discuss potential relief actions. With the Governor's formal drought emergency declaration, the Drought Response Committee was activated. This committee meets regularly to discuss drought impacts and coordinate response action.

In response to drought conditions in southeastern Utah, and as a result of the emergency drought declaration, federal and state funds were used to drill emergency wells insuring the availability of an adequate water supply for fire suppression and livestock watering. Federal funding was also used to truck in feed for cattle. The Farm Service Agency lifted restrictions on Conservation Reserve Program lands in the San Juan County.

To help reduce the impacts of the drought, state agencies have taken the following actions: The Division of Water Rights is prepared to expedite the well permitting process and approval of temporary water rights for drought-related mitigation. The Board of Water Resources has low and no interest loans and will give priority to projects that address drought related water problems. The State's Community Impact Board has also gone on record to give preferential consideration and priority status to projects that include drought mitigation.

Dissemination of information regarding the drought situation and raising public awareness about the critical nature of Utah's water supply levels has been effective. The state and other water agencies have worked with the local news media (television, newspapers and radio) to keep the general public aware of the drought situation and informed about ways the average citizen can help. Public response and support has been gratifying.