U of A Scientists Tackle Water Challenges
In our state, where every drop of water counts, researchers at the U of A are driving innovation and understanding to secure Arizona’s water future. The development of a portable water recycling system is a good example of this innovation. Andrea Achilli, an associate professor of Chemical and Environmental Engineering at the U of A, has developed the portable system through a growing partnership between the U of A Water and Energy Sustainable Technology (WEST) Center and the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center. As principal investigator, Achilli is leading the U of A’s $10 million share of a four-year, $38 million Water Reuse Consortium, which also includes the University of Southern California and the University of Nevada, Reno. The research focuses on smart treatment systems, sustainable brine management, improved virus detection, and public engagement to advance water reuse and strengthen national security.
Scientists are also tracking the atmosphere, studying unpredictable weather patterns that challenge expectations about water availability. Two recent articles in the Arizona Daily Star shared insights from U of A experts on this topic. With another disappointing monsoon season coming to a close, Mike Crimmins, a climatologist at the U of A Department of Environmental Science, reflected on the season that dashed many Arizonans’ hopes for wetter conditions. Crimmins emphasized how unpredictable the monsoon can be, stating, “I’ve been here for a while now, and I don't think I've seen a season where we went into it with a great deal of confidence about how it would turn out. We've had so many surprises.” Jennifer McIntosh, Associate Head of the U of A Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences, noted that “it takes several big monsoon storms in order to get recharge” of groundwater in our aquifers. Wet years can raise the water table along Tucson basin washes, and, similarly, washes are also where we see the effects of prolonged drought. As of the end of August 2025, Tucson has received just 1.94 inches of summer rain, about half the average amount by this point. Much of Arizona is also experiencing below-average monsoon rainfall, with particularly dry conditions in Phoenix, Gila Bend, Yuma, and Ajo.
On August 27, the Salt River Project (SRP) announced a $2.9 million investment in 37 research and development projects with three Arizona universities. SRP will be working with the U of A on 11 of these projects, aiming to advance innovations that support SRP’s ongoing commitment to delivering reliable power and water to its customers and continuing its 40-year history of investment in university research. Financial support like this can translate into real-world advances.
Given substantial uncertainty in Arizona’s changing water conditions, U of A researchers are helping communities build more resilience. By combining innovation, collaboration, and long-term vision, scientists—and the funding sources that make their work possible—ensure that the state is better prepared for the water challenges ahead.