Utah A High Mountain Desert: Climate Solutions

All plants capture carbon, but being water-wise is important. Utah's arid climate and cold winters make it tough to survive. However, the plant palette is still beautiful!  

Utah's grasslands are crucial carbon sinks, not only because they can sequester carbon but also because they store carbon in the soil, keeping it safe from wildfires. 

In arid high desert ecosystems, re-greening boosts carbon sequestration and jumpstarts the water cycle, enhancing precipitation and drought resilience. Let's regreen the SLC watershed.

Trees, green roofs, and vegetation can help reduce heat island effects by shading surfaces, deflecting radiation from the sun, and releasing moisture into the atmosphere. 

Soil and water conservation measures can improve soil carbon sequestration and soil quality. Using cover crops and regenerative farming practices can make a difference.  

Water levels have reached record lows due to pressures from agricultural and municipal diversions, climate change and drought. We need innovative solutions now.

Cacti open their stomata at night to absorb carbon dioxide, and store it in their cells as malic acid. They then use the carbon dioxide during the day for photosynthesis.

Discover the commercially available native plants of Utah on The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at UT Austin website. Explore their plant database to help create a sustainable landscape.