Water Security is the Bedrock of our Thriving Communities and Lifeblood of our Economy

Arizona’s thriving economy and vibrant communities in the Phoenix Valley exist because of water security, which is the critical factor that will also determine our future successes.  

Our present water security stems directly from the ongoing planning and investments in water resources and infrastructure by the AMWUA communities and other water providers. The diverse water supplies in our desert communities result from the hard work, tough decisions, and billions of dollars that past and current generations have invested. Securing water for future generations will rely on the same formula.

Arizona’s water security is also due to the state establishing and maintaining the platinum standard for residential development in the Phoenix metropolitan area for over 40 years. This requires a subdivision to demonstrate they have water for the next 100 years. In other words, water first, then development.  

Despite thorough planning, significant investments, and prudent water management, Arizona is facing converging water challenges that threaten its long-term water security. Addressing these challenges will require wise decisions, not quick fixes. We need state leaders to work with municipal water providers to guarantee that policies support our water security. 

As our state faces growing water issues and other growing pains, we wanted to highlight several key reasons why water security is essential for both today and the future.

WHAT IS WATER SECURITY?

The assurance that residents and businesses have access to clean, reliable water. This is the direct result of the AMWUA cities’ planning and investment of billions of dollars in their water resources and infrastructure.

WHY WATER SECURITY MATTERS

• It is the foundation of our thriving economy and vibrant communities. 
• It gives residents and businesses the confidence to make Arizona their permanent home.

THE CHALLENGES

• The AMWUA cities have spent billions of dollars to utilize surface water and significantly reduce their groundwater pumping. However, their supply of Colorado River water will decrease after 2026, when new cuts will be established.
• Cities will need to offset those anticipated reductions to Colorado River water.
• The Phoenix-area aquifer is stressed and cannot support additional groundwater pumping. Failure to protect the aquifer will jeopardize the ability of the AMWUA cities to meet the water needs of their communities.

THE SOLUTIONS

• Arizona must prioritize developing and investing in new water supplies to ensure long-term water security. This includes supporting immediate projects like Advanced Water Purification and expanding Bartlett Dam.
• Protect our stressed aquifers to ensure the sustainability of limited groundwater.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The water security the AMWUA municipalities provide is vital for Arizona’s resilience and economic prosperity.
• Water security requires a continuous commitment to planning and investment.
• State leaders and municipal water providers must work together on policies that protect our water security. 

The ten AMWUA municipalities serve 3.7 million residents, over half of Arizona's population, but use just 11 percent of the state's water. This accomplishment results from careful planning and purposeful investments, ensuring Arizona’s water security.