Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout the world live in a variety of environmental circumstances. In one area, there may be serious drought, while, in another, wet conditions can cause significant flooding. In all regions and circumstances, we teach that we have a responsibility to care for and gratefully use what God has given, avoid wasting resources and wisely use the bounty of the earth to care for one another.
Much of the American West is experiencing serious drought. In this area of the United States, the Church is working to reduce water use in all our buildings and facilities, including exterior landscaping. The Church has installed water-wise irrigation systems and low-flow plumbing systems in buildings constructed since the early 2000s and continues to retrofit older systems. Water conservation efforts continue to include the expansion of smart controllers, hydrometers, rain sensors, drip irrigation and use of secondary or reclaimed water. Additionally, we have adjusted watering schedules to meet local government guidelines, and we continue to monitor the conditions of all Church properties.
Read the full statement including more specific plans to reduce watering of lawns and landscapes as well as plans to make landscaping changes to permanently reduce water use at temples and meetinghouses on Church Newsroom.