Steven E. Clyde

Steven E. Clyde

Founding Partner and Leader in Utah Water Law

Steven E. Clyde’s passion for natural resources developed well before his legal career.

The son of Edward W. Clyde, one of the namesakes of Clyde Snow & Sessions, Steve spent much of his childhood working on the family ranch and exploring Utah’s outdoors. He often accompanied his father as he traveled throughout the state meeting with clients on farms and ranches. Listening to his father navigate issues around water rights gave Steve an early understanding of water’s importance in the West—and sparked an interest that would ultimately define his career.

Inspired by his father, Steve earned his law degree from the University of Utah College of Law in 1975. He began as a clerk at Clyde Snow and became an attorney after passing the bar. Over the next five decades, Steve became one of Utah’s leading water and natural resources attorneys, building on his father’s legacy while establishing his own.

Following his father’s passing, Steve became general counsel for the Central Utah Water Conservancy District, sponsor of the Central Utah Project. His work included significant negotiations involving Bureau of Reclamation facilities and hydroelectric power plants associated with the Central Utah Project. Throughout his career, he represented public entities, businesses, irrigation companies, developers, and individuals in Utah’s most complex water matters.

Steve played a prominent role in Utah’s water sector. He managed water rights acquisition and conversion for major developments such as Jeremy Ranch, Park Meadows, Glenwild Golf Resort, Park City Mountain Resort, Powder Mountain, Snowbasin, and Brian Head. He represented clients before the Utah State Engineer and litigated water rights cases in state and federal courts, including the Utah Supreme Court. He also served on executive and legislative task forces, guiding Utah’s water laws and protecting the Great Salt Lake.

On August 1, 2026, Steve Edward Clyde passed away surrounded by his family. He devoted his career to the land and the water resources of the state he loved. However, outside his professional life, Steve cherished moments with his family outdoors. He enjoyed horseback riding, skiing, cycling, and playing tennis. You could often find him puttering outside on his family’s ranch.

Steve’s influence and mentorship helped shape our firm’s culture. His influence lives on both within our firm and Utah’s water law.