Great Salt Lake Crisis: Collaborative Journalism Efforts to Save a Shrinking Ecosystem
The Great Salt Lake, a critical component of Utah’s ecology and economy, is facing an unprecedented crisis due to decades of water diversion, prolonged drought and the impacts of climate change. In response, a unique collaboration of news organizations, scientists, and educators has formed to inform the public and explore potential solutions before it’s too late. This initiative, known as the Great Salt Lake Collaborative, represents a novel approach to environmental journalism and public engagement.
The Formation of the Great Salt Lake Collaborative
Recognizing that independent reporting alone wasn’t sufficient to address the complex challenges facing the lake, 21 Utah news organizations joined forces in 2022. This collaboration was catalyzed by a grant from the Solutions Journalism Network and funding from the Knight Foundation. The goal is to share resources, expertise, and reach a wider audience with comprehensive coverage of the lake’s plight. All stories produced by member organizations are shared across their respective newsrooms and are also available at greatsaltlakenews.org, serving as a central hub for information.
Focus on Solutions and Lessons from Other Lakes
The Collaborative isn’t simply documenting the decline of the Great Salt Lake; it’s actively seeking solutions. Journalists are investigating strategies employed by other shrinking lake ecosystems, such as Owens Lake and Mono Lake in California, to understand what can be learned and applied to the situation in Utah. Mono Lake Committee hosted journalists from the Collaborative in August to share insights on conservation efforts. The Collaborative also examined how Las Vegas has successfully reduced water consumption through strict conservation orders, contrasting this approach with Utah’s historically voluntary measures.
Recent Developments and Legislative Action
Recent reporting from the Collaborative highlights key developments impacting the Great Salt Lake. As of March 12, 2026, Salt Lake City is considering a return to its drought contingency plan due to an unfavorable snowpack outlook. Recent news also covers a deal between Utah and the federal government to resolve a decades-classic dispute regarding water rights, a resolution lawmakers are calling a “win-win” for the lake. Legislative sessions have also focused on water policy, with discussions surrounding data centers and their potential impact on water resources, as evidenced by a hearing in Iron County regarding a proposed AI data center. Concerns are rising about the potential for Lake Powell to reach historic lows, with Flaming Gorge Reservoir being considered as a potential lifeline.
The Importance of Collaboration in Journalism
Heather May, director of the Great Salt Lake Collaborative and Colorado River Collaborative, emphasizes the importance of collaborative journalism in addressing complex environmental issues. The Collaborative model allows for a more comprehensive and impactful approach to reporting, combining the strengths of multiple news organizations and fostering a shared commitment to finding solutions.
Looking Ahead
The future of the Great Salt Lake remains uncertain, but the Great Salt Lake Collaborative is playing a vital role in raising awareness, informing the public, and advocating for responsible water management. By continuing to share knowledge, explore solutions, and hold decision-makers accountable, the Collaborative aims to ensure a sustainable future for this critical ecosystem.