North Pima News

The City of Phoenix Water Services Dept. addresses concerns raised by the new Phoenix Active Management Area (AMA) Groundwater Model release, emphasizing that Phoenix's water security remains intact due to its diversified water portfolio and long-term planning. It is important to note that while the Phoenix AMA bears our city’s name, the area is very large and encompasses all of Maricopa County and parts of Pinal County. However, the model, unveiled by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, has prompted discussions about Phoenix's water resources.

The Groundwater Model provides valuable insights into groundwater usage projections and indicates an expected groundwater shortage of 4.9 million acre-feet over the next 100 years in the Phoenix AMA. The Model does not include projections of the availability of any other type of water, including water from rivers and streams and reclaimed water.

While the results of the study are important for understanding the groundwater situation, it is crucial for Phoenix Water customers and stakeholders to know that the City’s water security remains unaffected. Groundwater plays a minimal role in Phoenix's overall water usage, accounting for only 2% of the City's total water usage each year. The remainder of Phoenix’s water supplies come from renewable resources, such as the Salt, Verde, and Colorado Rivers. Phoenix also reuses more than 95% of its reclaimed water. 

"Ensuring our continued water security is a top priority, and I have the utmost confidence in the City of Phoenix’s water resources planning and resilience," said Mayor Kate Gallego. "For the last several decades we have stored more groundwater than we have used, and we will continue to invest in diversifying our resources, bolstering infrastructure, and enhancing conservation practices. We’re not only looking out for ourselves—Phoenix will continue to lead the region in securing our water supplies for the future, including in driving the development of a regional Advanced Water Purification system that will supply up to 60 million gallons of water per day by the end of the decade."

The Assured Water Supply (AWS) program is a cornerstone of Phoenix's water management efforts. All ten cities within the Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (AMWUA) have a 100-year Assured Water Supply Designation, demonstrating their ability to meet current and future water demands, including growth. This designation considers a diverse water portfolio, including surface water from the Central Arizona Project (CAP) and Salt River Project (SRP), which accounted for 90% of drinking water supplies in 2021. Groundwater represents a small percentage of the collective water portfolios of AMWUA cities.

Cynthia Campbell, Phoenix Water Resources Management Advisor, added, "The City of Phoenix has diligently pursued a comprehensive water management strategy, which includes reducing dependence on groundwater. Through proactive measures such as advanced water purification systems, infrastructure expansion, and strong conservation programs, we will continue to be resilient in the face of challenges."

Additionally, the City of Phoenix has implemented its own sophisticated water forecasting system that considers various factors such as temperature, precipitation patterns, population growth, and economic development. This comprehensive approach allows the City to accurately assess future water demands and make informed decisions to ensure water availability for its residents and businesses. By considering the potential impacts of climate change, population growth, and economic factors, Phoenix is actively planning and implementing strategies to meet the water needs of a thriving and expanding city. This proactive approach, combined with the diversified water portfolio and long-term planning, further solidifies Phoenix's commitment to maintaining water security and sustainability for the years to come.

The City of Phoenix Water Services Department remains committed to sustainable water management practices, investing in technology, infrastructure, and conservation measures. Those efforts ensure that Phoenix can meet current and future water demands, regardless of the challenges posed by the groundwater model or potential Colorado River shortages.    

Arizona Department of Water Resources: Phoenix AMA Groundwater Supply Updates

About City of Phoenix Water Services Department  

The City of Phoenix Water Services Department is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable, and sustainable water services to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Phoenix. With a commitment to water conservation, innovation, and long-term planning, the department ensures a secure and resilient water supply for future generations.     For more information, visit phoenix.gov/water.  

Original source can be found here.