The city of Escalante, Utah, has a population of 8,265 residents. It is located on the western edge of the Grand Canyon and is part of the Colorado Plateau. It is one of the most remote settlements in the continental United States. Residents had to travel more than eight hours to reach Boulder, the nearest large city. Residents were also reliant on subsistence agriculture, including production of rice, corn, and edible root crops.
The poverty rate in Escalante City is slightly higher than the state average of 17.9%. The poverty rate is lower in neighboring towns like Cedar City, though the poverty rate is higher. The median gross rent in Escalante is $842 a month. The city's rent burden is higher than that of neighboring cities such as Hildale and Flagstaff. There are 19.7% of households in Escalante that are renters.
Garfield County's Intergovernmental Restoration Initiative aims to improve environmental health, reduce fire risks in the community, and enhance irrigation and culinary water sources. The project also aims to provide jobs for local residents. The project also aims to improve water supply and wildlife habitat. These goals are important for the city's future. It is hoped that the increased economic activity will help the community grow as a result of the restoration process.