UVU is committed to smart water use. The irrigation water used at UVU is not contaminated with harmful chemicals and draws water from a well on campus and the municipal water system. This approach reduces demand on the local municipal water system. This water is stored in two large irrigation ponds (which double as reflection ponds) on the south-west corner of campus. The concrete-lined ponds prevent seepage and waste.

UVU prevents wasting water through a sophisticated weather-activated irrigation system. Sensors on campus automatically detect the temperature, humidity, light, wind, and even evaporation to determine whether there is a need to water the grounds. The automation reduces overwatering or watering during inopportune times. Additionally, in some areas on campus watering is done through liquid injection. The slow seepage of water into the grounds prevents waste in the form of evaporation or wet sidewalks and roads. The technology keeps water consumption at the optimum level while not drying out the lawns.