Colorado River Shortage: Preparing for Less

While a final decision has not yet been made, the federal government has indicated it will require the three Lower Basin States (Arizona, California, and Nevada) to start using significantly less Colorado River water (up to 3 million acre-feet) to protect the river’s infrastructure from worsening conditions. The cuts that the US Bureau of Reclamation intends to impose will first impact Arizona because the Central Arizona Project (CAP), which delivers Colorado River water to Phoenix and Tucson communities, holds junior priority to other Colorado River users. In other words, the federal government is willing to allow CAP water deliveries to be significantly reduced, or even to let the canal go completely dry, depending on how severe conditions become on the Colorado River.   

Here in Arizona, we have always approached desert water management with discipline and foresight, and that foundation is exactly what the AMWUA cities are building on now to prepare for less Colorado River water. These efforts involve investing in innovative solutions for long-term water security and building new habits to intentionally reduce water use, both of which require support from residents and businesses. Together, we can ensure a shortage on the river does not mean a shortage at your tap. 

Cities Are Already Acting

The Colorado River is in crisis, and the severity is greater than initially expected. What matters most is that our cities are ready and have a plan to keep your tap flowing.

• Each city has a unique combination of water supplies, including surface, recycled, and groundwater, so each one will feel the impact of this Colorado River shortage in its own way.
  
• To make up for reduced water from the Colorado River, municipalities may need to draw on their carefully managed groundwater reserves. This is only a short-term option since groundwater is limited. For long-term stability, we need to find other water sources.
  
• Cities have spent years investing in storing water storage so it can be used when it is needed most, such as during a shortage.
  
• We don’t know how much Colorado River water will be available after 2026, but cities are already taking action to keep water safe and reliable. Some steps include:
  
  - Securing new water sources and funding to expand treatment plants and upgrade infrastructure, such as advanced metering (known as AMI), to help customers monitor water usage and detect leaks.
  
  - Investing in technology-based initiatives like Advanced Water Purification (AWP) to create a local water source that is efficient and drought-resistant.
  
  - Adopting policies and codes to ensure efficient water use is prioritized across their communities.
  
  - Updating shortage plans, increasing conservation and demand management programs, while working to improve their own efficiencies to lead by example. 

A New Water Reality for Arizona

• The Colorado River is no longer a dependable water source, so our new challenge is adapting to using less.
  
• To stay resilient, we need major investments from our state and federal governments. This financial support will help develop new water sources for our communities.
  
• Arizona is not running out of water. We are moving on from the days when water was plentiful and cheap. Keeping our water systems secure will require ongoing investments, which will be reflected in future water rates.

Your Role in Arizona's Water Future

Living in the desert means water is vital for everything. We've faced challenges before and are prepared to face them again, but everyone must do their part – by using less water, supporting your city’s initiatives that strengthen water security, and staying informed about local efforts to build a resilient Arizona for all of us.

For 57 years, the Arizona Municipal Water Users Association has worked to protect our member cities' ability to provide assured, safe, and sustainable water supplies to their communities — Avondale, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Goodyear, Mesa, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe. For more information on water, visit amwua.org.