'FUTURE SCARCITY' FOR WATER IN AZ

posted by Michael Chihak

The University of Arizona's annual conference on state water issues will be held next week in Tucson.

The conference will focus on extending the water supply for another century.

Before we talk about a century from now, though, we should focus on the immediate future.

One research report that will be discussed at the conference next week says the "critical threshold" for water supply in Arizona will be around the year 2035, give or take a couple of years. That's just two decades from now, right around the corner.

No one questions that water is the No. 1 economic and societal issue in the state.

But as long as it flows readily from the tap and remains relatively inexpensive, are we willing to do anything about it? That's the point of the conference, to get us to do something.

Water experts say that means more than shorter showers, turning off the faucet when brushing your teeth and minimizing outdoor watering.

One report that will be discussed at the conference puts it this way: "The state is acing a future of potential water scarcity unless significant demand side reduction and supply augmentation strategies are implemented."

More simply put, it means we'll run low on water if we don't reduce what we use and find new sources.

And while shorter showers will help and are advised, a strategic approach, one driven by changes in state law, is what's really needed.

State policymakers are not currently working on a comprehensive approach to revamping and modernizing water management.

That may be because we're not in a water crisis -- yet.

Two decades will speed by, and then we will be in crisis.

The time for political leaders to act is now.

Conference participants say they hope to generate a better dialogue about water in the state and to make recommendations for legislative action.

Arizonans would do well to pay close attention to the outcomes.