Arizona Approval of Drought Contingency Plan Marks Major Step Toward a More Secure Water Supply

(PHOENIX, AZ – January 31, 2019) The Water for Arizona Coalition today commended state lawmakers for voting to approve the state’s Drought Contingency Plan (DCP).

“It is increasingly likely that a decline in Lake Mead’s elevation will trigger a shortage declaration in the years ahead. Having a Drought Contingency Plan in place helps make sure that such a shortage, and the water cutbacks that will follow it, do not disrupt our economy and cause more pain than they need to.

“This plan conserves more water in Lake Mead through a mix of mechanisms and incentives to reduce water demand, including system conservation projects and water trading among cities, tribes and irrigation districts. I commend our legislature and Governor Ducey for recognizing the urgent need for conservation and other actions to protect the health of the Colorado River system that supports cities, farms and ranches, industry, tribal communities, wildlife, and recreation in the region.”

• Kevin Moran, Senior Director for the Colorado River Program at Environmental Defense Fund and Chair of the Water for Arizona Coalition, served as an official alternate member of the Arizona Drought Contingency Plan Steering Committee.