The Significance of Water Awareness in our Desert Climate

In Arizona’s dry climate, water is a lifeline. The choices we make daily directly impact our shared water future. By learning more about water, we can help keep our water supply secure, support smart growth, and keep our economy strong.

April is Water Awareness Month—a perfect opportunity to learn about water management and discover why conservation is critical in Arizona. By becoming more aware of our water use, we can all make a difference.

Smart water management is essential for Arizona’s future.

Arizona’s success depends on responsible water management. Careful planning and investment in water resources and infrastructure have created the water security we rely on today. Our diverse water sources are the result of years of thoughtful decisions and major investments.

Thanks to careful planning and investment, the AMWUA cities supply water to 3.7 million people, which is over half of Arizona’s population, while using just 11 percent of the state’s water supply.

Despite our successes, Arizona’s cities face ongoing challenges. Maintenance costs for water systems are rising, and reduced Colorado River water deliveries are expected in 2026. This will increase pressure on our limited groundwater supplies, making it vital to invest in new water sources, such as expanding Bartlett Dam on the Verde River, implementing Advanced Water Purification, and exploring other innovative solutions.

Investing in water supplies and infrastructure strengthens our water systems, benefiting everyone now and into the future.

Conserving water is important to make sure we have enough when we need it most.

Arizona takes water conservation seriously. The AMWUA cities continue to build on past efforts to make the most of their water supplies, especially as future limits on the Colorado River and groundwater are expected. 

Many people may not know that Arizona has required water conservation in its largest cities for over 40 years. City water providers must track all water use, report it each year, and meet strict conservation standards. The AMWUA cities use more than 300 best practices to meet these rules and reach long-term water goals.

The AMWUA cities and their partners have created shared conservation programs and resources for years. Each city offers a unique mix of programs, rebates, and tools to help its residents and businesses use water wisely—indoors and outdoors.

Using water efficiently is everyone’s responsibility. Homes, businesses, industries, and agriculture across the state must work together to protect our shared water supply.

Stay mindful of your water use throughout the year. Small, steady actions add up. By making water efficiency a daily habit, we can secure a sustainable future for Arizona as we commit to using less.

Since 2008, the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) and water conservation partners across the state, including AMWUA cities, have celebrated Water Awareness Month (WAM) every April. This year, the WAM Festival will be held on Saturday, April 11th, from 10 am to 2 pm at Steele Indian School Park in Phoenix. The event will feature information booths, family-friendly educational activities, and local water experts available to answer questions.