AMWUA Blog
Understanding the difference between a drought and a water shortage
The terms drought and shortage are often used interchangeably when discussing water in the West. While both drought and shortage involve a lack of water, their circumstances, impacts, and challenges differ. Understanding the distinction between a drought and a water shortage is helpful for understanding the complexities of our water resources here in Arizona....
Apr 22 2025
Trees enrich our desert communities in many waysThere are numerous ways to enhance a landscape, but one of the most effective methods is by incorporating native trees. Planting a tree not only creates an immediate visual impact with its beauty, color, and texture, but it also offers a range of benefits when planted and maintained properly. Trees provide social, communal, environmental, and economic advantages that positively affect our communit...
Apr 15 2025
The Uncertain Future of the Colorado RiverThe uncertainty surrounding the Colorado River presents ongoing challenges for all users of this vital resource. The unpredictability of the amount of Colorado River water that AMWUA municipalities can depend on after 2026 remains a significant concern, prompting them to strategize on ways to navigate this uncertainty effectively....
Apr 08 2025
In appreciation of Arizona's water professionals who provide a vital serviceOur daily lives greatly depend on the availability and reliability of clean water. Access to safe and secure water is impossible without a dedicated and diverse team of water professionals who understand that protecting and managing Arizona’s water supplies is crucial to the state’s future....
Apr 01 2025
The significance of water awareness in our arid climateIt goes without saying that water is a vital resource. Here in Arizona, understanding its critical role is essential, especially given our challenging climate. We must recognize that our daily choices impact our collective water future, so expanding our awareness of this valuable resource is key to strengthening our foundation of water security, enabling responsible growth, and building a thriving...
Mar 24 2025
Fixing leaks is a simple water-saving task that adds upTo make a positive impact as a residential water consumer, prioritize maintaining a water-efficient home inside and out. This approach can greatly minimize water waste, leading to reduced water and sewer bills while also fostering a more sustainable water future for your community....
Mar 18 2025
Lawsuits only further complicate Arizona’s water challengesThere are now two lawsuits against the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR). The first challenges ADWR’s efforts and authority to uphold the 100-year Assured Water Supply Program, the foundation of Arizona’s thriving economy. The second would prevent homebuilding from restarting, where it has been halted due to groundwater concerns. In the end, both lawsuits pose threats to Arizona’s water...
Mar 11 2025
Groundwater is a finite resource that must be used wiselyThis year commemorates the 45th anniversary of the landmark 1980 Groundwater Management Act, a crucial piece of legislation that established guidelines for sustainable groundwater use in Arizona. In conjunction with this milestone, we are also observing National Groundwater Awareness Week, an annual campaign to educate the public about the significance of groundwater resources. These two events of...
Mar 04 2025
Create an outdoor plan for spring with free conservation classes and resourcesAfter an unseasonably warm winter, now is the ideal time to do some outdoor planning before the early arrival of summer. The AMWUA cities offer a wide variety of resources, including free classes and workshops, to help you create and maintain a beautiful, drought-resistant yard....
Feb 25 2025
Water security enables us to thrive in our state's unique landscapeThis month, Arizona celebrated its 113th birthday, which provides us with a perfect opportunity to appreciate where we live and embrace the state's diverse landscapes and weather, along with our ongoing resilience in the face of persistent challenges....