The significance of water awareness in our arid climate

It 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 economy.

As April begins, we are set to celebrate Water Awareness Month , a perfect opportunity to learn more about water management and the importance of conservation in Arizona so we can all become more water aware.

Effective and responsible water management is essential for water security.

Our vibrant communities continue to thrive because of effective water management, which has also been vital to our state's success. Ongoing planning and investments in water resources and infrastructure have created the strong foundation of water security that we currently enjoy. The diverse water supplies in our desert communities are the result of decades of planning, numerous tough decisions, and billions of dollars invested by both past and present generations.

Through this type of careful planning and intentional investments, the AMWUA cities are able to provide water to over 3.7 million people, representing more than half of Arizona’s population, while using only 11 percent of the state’s water. 

Despite past successes, the cities recognize that their efforts can never stop, especially as municipal water utilities are currently facing significant challenges. In addition to the rising costs of maintaining their water systems, the AMWUA cities and other designated water providers are preparing for a future with reduced Colorado River water . This will put increased pressure on our finite groundwater resources, making investing in developing new water supplies essential. These new supplies might come from various sources, such as raising Bartlett Dam on the Verde River, utilizing Advanced Water Purification technology , or exploring other water sources. 

Investing in water supplies and infrastructure is essential to guarantee the resilience of our municipal water systems. This proactive approach benefits all Arizonans and secures a robust economic future.

Conservation plays a vital role in safeguarding our water for when we need it most.

In Arizona, we know the importance of water conservation. That is why the AMWUA cities remain committed to continually building upon past and current conservation efforts to maximize the use of their water supplies, especially as we face a future with less Colorado River water and groundwater limitations.

Many may not realize Arizona has mandated water conservation in its most populated areas for over 40 years. Municipal water providers are required to meter all connections, report their water usage annually, and meet increasingly strict conservation standards. The AMWUA cities implement more than 300 best management practices to meet these requirements and achieve long-term water management goals. 

Additionally, the AMWUA cities and their partners have also collaborated to develop shared conservation resources and programs for decades. Each municipality has created and invested in its own unique blend of water conservation programs, rebates, and resources to best serve its community. These conservation efforts have equipped residents and businesses with the tools and knowledge to use water efficiently indoors and outdoors.

Efficient water use is everyone's responsibility, and being mindful of our consumption is essential. A collective commitment to responsible water use must be established across the entire state—residential, municipal, commercial, industrial, and agricultural sectors. Together, we can protect our water supplies.

Now, as we prepare to enter the hot weather season, we invite you to embrace the idea of becoming more water-conscious, not just this month but every month. Remember, small, consistent changes every day throughout the year can create a powerful impact. By prioritizing water efficiency, we can foster a sustainable future for our communities and the environment. Together, we can make a difference.

Water is a serious subject in Arizona. The availability and quality of our water supply are critical to our quality of life and our state’s status as a world-class destination. Arizona’s Governor recognized this in 2008 with an Executive Order that designated April as Water Awareness Month . Since then, the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) and water conservation partners from around the state, including the AMWUA cities, have participated in this annual to help everyone become a little more water aware .