Water Use in the Treasure Valley
Faculty Mentor Information
Dr. Jillian Moroney
Abstract
The Treasure Valley includes a mix of urban and agricultural land near the headwaters of the Boise River, which provides large quantities of water to the area. Comprised of Ada and Canyon counties, the largest and fastest growing counties in the state of Idaho, the Treasure Valley is home to a large portion of Idaho’s population as well as water use. Using data from the USGS on water use by sector, in addition to population growth estimates from the U.S. Census, I am researching the questions “How do we use water in the Treasure Valley?” and “How use has changed over time relative to population growth?” Initial findings indicate that as the population continues to grow in the Treasure Valley, so does the water usage in each sector. This research will be compiled into a website available to the public to start the conversation about future water use in the Treasure Valley. This work is contributing to the Treasure Valley Water Atlas, a resource under construction to inform water users and policy makers about water resources in the Treasure Valley in the face of population growth and climate changes.
Water Use in the Treasure Valley
The Treasure Valley includes a mix of urban and agricultural land near the headwaters of the Boise River, which provides large quantities of water to the area. Comprised of Ada and Canyon counties, the largest and fastest growing counties in the state of Idaho, the Treasure Valley is home to a large portion of Idaho’s population as well as water use. Using data from the USGS on water use by sector, in addition to population growth estimates from the U.S. Census, I am researching the questions “How do we use water in the Treasure Valley?” and “How use has changed over time relative to population growth?” Initial findings indicate that as the population continues to grow in the Treasure Valley, so does the water usage in each sector. This research will be compiled into a website available to the public to start the conversation about future water use in the Treasure Valley. This work is contributing to the Treasure Valley Water Atlas, a resource under construction to inform water users and policy makers about water resources in the Treasure Valley in the face of population growth and climate changes.