AMWUA Blog

What is the Arizona Water Authority?
The recent announcement proposing a new state water entity raises questions about what it means for our state, what impact it will have on our water supplies, and at what cost. Before addressing those questions, let’s first look at the role this new Arizona Water Authority would play. ...

Mar 01 2022
Guiding principles for augmentation discussionsFinding new water supplies is an increasing area of focus for state leaders, decision-makers, and the water community, as highlighted by the recent announcement to create an Arizona Water Authority that will focus on augmentation. Recognizing this emphasis on finding new water supplies, the AMWUA cities identified the need for a clear and unified position on augmentation and how to evaluate specif...

Feb 22 2022
Key questions about augmentationArizona is always on the outlook for that next bucket of water. Knowing the importance of water in the desert, we often dream of finding new water supplies. This has increased in recent years as we recognize that shortages on the Colorado River will mean less water in the future, hence spurring more conversations about water augmentation and how we can locate that next bucket to enhance our existi...

Feb 15 2022
Create your own beautiful, sustainable, and water-efficient landscape by utilizing free classes and resourcesWhile some areas of the country are still dealing with winter weather, our thoughts have turned to spring here in Arizona, which means it’s the perfect time to do some outdoor planning. With a bit of strategy and knowledge, it’s easy to design, plant, and maintain a lovely, drought-resistant, and water-efficient yard. To help you with your spring preparation, the AMWUA cities offer a wide variety ...

Feb 08 2022
Engaged elected officials are a key component of AMWUA's leadershipWith foresight and an understanding of the water challenges that life in the desert can bring, mayors from Valley cities gathered to discuss water issues back in 1969. They formed a unique and innovative partnership, thus creating the Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (AMWUA). Over time it would become a collaboration of ten member municipalities, who represent 3.7 million people, working ...

Feb 01 2022
Water conservation ethic more effective than short-term restrictionsNow that we have entered a Colorado River Tier 1 Shortage, and with the increased attention to our water supplies and drought in Arizona, residents and media continue to inquire why municipalities are not putting mandatory water restrictions in place. While many things contribute to that decision, the simplified answer is – because it is not currently necessary....

Jan 25 2022
We all play a part in keeping our water safe and cleanAny amount of precipitation is appreciated when you live in the desert. And when it does finally rain in Arizona, we know it can often come down quickly and can even cause flooding, creating strong water flows that go over driveways and sidewalks, through streets, and parking lots. These forceful water flows can also carry pollutants such as trash, oil, pet waste, and pesticides into our storm dra...

Jan 18 2022
A Key Infrastructure Bill Introduced at Arizona’s LegislatureArizona’s leaders are looking for water solutions, which became even more evident with Governor Ducey’s recent proposal to spend $1 billion on augmentation projects to supplement Arizona water resources....

Jan 11 2022
Safeguarding our water must be a priority for legislatorsWith the 2022 legislative session now underway, state legislators will be considering various proposals to address water challenges. The importance of water has been elevated with the uncertainty surrounding the Colorado River shortage, prolonged regional drought, climate change, and pressures to better regulate our groundwater. We are at a critical juncture, so lawmakers will need to carefully we...

Jan 04 2022
Tier 1 Shortage has arrived; Cities are ready, but the work is far from overCities recognize that conditions on the Colorado River are serious and that the evolving situation will most likely worsen. Fortunately, the AMWUA cities and their water managers understand the significance of what is happening and are well-equipped to face the Tier 1 shortage that began on January 1st and deeper levels of shortage that will likely follow in future years....