Phoenix Takes New Steps to Conserve Colorado River Water

Mayor Kate Gallego and members of the City Council agreed Wednesday to new, coordinated action with the goal of further reducing demand for Colorado River water.

Mayor and Council agreed unanimously to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the cities of Denver, Aurora, and Pueblo Colorado, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, and the South Nevada Water Authority. The MOU commits each city and region to, among other strategies, increase water reuse and recycling programs, expand efficiency of water use, and reduce the quantity of non-functional grass, replacing it with drought and climate resilient landscaping. Additional cities in Arizona and throughout the West are expected to join the MOU in the coming weeks.

The MOU also identifies a range of additional water conservation best practices that cities and regions can choose to implement.

“This is the kind of collaboration that is essential to restoring the strength of the Colorado River,” said Mayor Kate Gallego. “As the MOU points out, no one city or region can solve drought and water issues on its own. While we await strong federal action, we must do everything in our power to be wise water stewards.”

Councilwoman Ann O’Brien added, “Water is our most valuable resource, especially here in the desert. Phoenix has already taken proactive steps forward in working towards water conservation. In July, the Council approved two new developments in North Phoenix that have committed to reducing turf in front yards and increasing desert landscaping throughout the open spaces. Serving as the City’s representative on the Arizona Municipal Water User Authority Board, I know firsthand the importance of collaboration in water conservation. This MOU does just that.”

This vote comes less than five months after the City declared a Stage 1 Water Alert and activated its Drought Management Plan back in June.

Phoenix has a proven history of water conservation. The City has reduced its per capita water use by 30% over the last 30 years – even with an increase in population of more than 400,000 people.

Mayor Gallego added, “Even with our successes, we must find new ways to ensure we get the most out of every drop of water. It will require continued, creative approaches that involve the city, local businesses, and individual residents.”

To learn more about what the City of Phoenix Water Services Department is doing, and how you can help, click here. Find out how to participate in our Colorado River Shortage Town Hall discussions here.​