Press Release
Coconino County Grapples with Water Management Challenges Amid Growth Concerns
FLAGSTAFF, AZ — Water management is crucial in Arizona, yet many northern regions, including Coconino County, face uncertainties due to outdated regulations. The 1980 Arizona Groundwater Management Act allows major cities like Phoenix and Tucson to oversee groundwater, but about 80% of the state lacks this oversight.
Coconino County Supervisor Patrice Horstman expressed her concerns about the heavy reliance on aquifers, highlighting the inability to manage water availability and usage effectively. "If we run out of water, we’ve run out of everything," she stated, emphasizing the challenges of planning for future growth amid ongoing drought conditions.
Arizona is one of the fastest-growing states, but the lack of groundwater data hinders local governments from assessing whether new developments are sustainable. Horstman noted the crucial need for state assistance in understanding water availability and developing conservation strategies.
To address these issues, Horstman proposed the establishment of a local groundwater stewardship area to regain control that the current law neglects. Local leaders continue to seek solutions to ensure a sustainable water supply for current and future residents. The Arizona Department of Water Resources has yet to respond to these concerns.
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