Commission approves $10,000 match for state cloud-seeding pilot with San Juan and other partners

The Grand County Commission voted to allocate $10,000 from the 2026 discretionary budget toward a local match for a state cloud-seeding pilot project covering the La Sal and Abajo mountain areas.

Background: The Utah Division of Water Resources and the state legislature have funded operational cloud-seeding pilots; the state offered $350,000 for a winter program with a requirement of local matches. County staff said a group of local partners'including San Juan County, the city of Moab and Grand Water & Sewer Conservancy District'is organizing the match and that the county's share would be $10,000.

Why it matters: Cloud seeding aims to increase precipitation under certain atmospheric conditions. Supporters argue it can augment local water supplies and help drought resilience; critics say the measurable benefits are uncertain, results depend heavily on weather conditions and monitoring is difficult.

Commission discussion: Commissioners and members of the public debated the evidence and priorities. Supporters said the state investment and participation by water agencies justified a small local contribution, while opponents argued county funds should be reserved for proven, local needs given budget pressures.

Vote and outcome: Commissioner McCurdy moved to allocate $10,000; Commissioner McCandless seconded. The motion passed. Commissioners Adeam, Hadler and McGahn voted against the allocation.

Next steps: Staff said they will continue coordination with partner agencies and the state and will formalize any contract or grant acceptance and confirm how the state will administer the program funds; the county contribution will be handled through the 2026 discretionary budget process.

Sources: presentation and Q&A with county staff and public comments during the commission meeting; formal motion and vote recorded in meeting minutes.