Arizona relies on a diverse portfolio of water resources to meet its overall water needs, including groundwater, Colorado River water, in-state rivers, and reclaimed water. While all that water may meet our needs today, there is uncertainty about the future.
Today, Arizona’s water resources already are strained by prolonged drought, changing climate, and chronic overuse. Drought conditions have persisted for two decades, making water in our desert environment all the more precious. Parts of the state rely entirely on a finite supply of groundwater, raising concerns about its long-term availability. In addition, the amount of water Arizona receives each year from the Colorado River is subject to river conditions, which have been deteriorating for more than a decade.