Staying Ahead of Arizona's Water Crisis: The Kay-Grant Group's Commitment to Updating the Community

The Kay-Grant Group stays on top of the water shortage in Arizona by attending educational meetings so we can inform our clients. 

On June 21, 2023, The Kay-Grant Group had the privilege of hearing from Max Wilson, Ph.D., the Deputy Director of the Phoenix Water Department. 

As the only state in the country with a water plan, Arizona stands out for its stringent conservation measures, put into place with the Groundwater Management Act of 1980. This Act enabled Arizona to legally create an assured water supply of 100 years to meet both the current and future demands of its residents and businesses.

Every municipality is allocated water based on its needs. For example, Phoenix obtains 52% of its water from the Salt and Verde Rivers, 38% from the Colorado River, 8% is reclaimed, and the remainder, 2%, comes from groundwater. 

Meanwhile, Scottsdale's water consists of 75% from the Colorado River, 7% from the Salt and Verde Rivers, 12% reclaimed, and 6% from groundwater. It's important to note that moratoriums recently implemented have no effect on existing certificates or Designated Providers, such as Phoenix and Scottsdale.

In the recent past, The Kay-Grant Group met with Sarah Porter, director of the Kyl Center for Water Policy at Arizona State University. Sarah explained that the water used in SRP travels approximately 150 miles from its source to your home and that the certificates are renewed every 10-15 years, depending on the county in which it is located.

The Assured Water Supply Program works within the state's five Active Management Areas, aiming to sustain Arizona's economy by safeguarding groundwater and fostering long-term water supply planning. 

Governor Hobbs' comments demonstrate this sentiment: "Our water future is secure. Water supplies for homeowners and businesses are safe and protected. Growth has been and will continue to be planned for, and we will tackle the water challenges we face with integrity and transparency. We will not allow a lack of resources to hamper Arizona's future economic growth. This is the approach we have used to make Arizona prosperous, and it is the one we will keep using."