Tucson Faces Water Crisis: Urgent Action Needed to Harness Rainfall

UPDATE: Tucson is confronting a critical water crisis as experts warn that the city must urgently improve its water management strategies. Currently, Tucson relies on the Colorado River for approximately 80% of its water supply, and with Lake Mead in a Tier 1 shortage, the situation is dire.

Latest data from the U.S. Department of the Interior reveals that Lake Mead is projected to hit a record low by 2027. As the Central Arizona Project (CAP) continues to cut water allocations, Tucson’s ability to sustain its growing population is at risk.

Groundwater is Tucson’s most reliable long-term water source, yet the city’s current infrastructure fails to adequately recharge this vital resource. Experts emphasize that without sufficient water from CAP to replenish the aquifer, Tucson’s growth will stagnate, and residents may face severe water shortages.

“Tucson needs to take policy action to strengthen sustainable groundwater recharge,” said Caitlin Clark, a sustainability student at Arizona State University. “One of the most effective strategies is reducing impervious surfaces and requiring stormwater runoff retention basins.”

Recent research indicates that Tucson receives enough rainfall annually to meet its water consumption needs—yet less than 2% of that rainwater is harvested. This inefficiency underscores the urgent need for improved stormwater runoff infrastructure that can capture and store rainwater for future use.

The city’s extensive use of impermeable surfaces, such as concrete and asphalt, exacerbates the issue by preventing water from filtering back into the aquifer. By implementing stormwater retention systems, Tucson could not only mitigate street flooding but also enhance its groundwater recharge capabilities.

Authorities recommend that all new developments incorporate stormwater retention infrastructure, including permeable surfaces and onsite basins. Such policies would diversify Tucson’s water supply and bolster its resilience against ongoing drought conditions.

While initial construction costs may deter some developers, the long-term benefits for Tucson’s water security and climate adaptation are undeniable. As the region grapples with declining CAP water availability, proactive measures are necessary to secure a sustainable future.

The time to act is NOW. As Tucson faces unprecedented challenges due to climate change and dwindling water resources, residents are urged to engage with local officials and advocate for policies that promote sustainable water management.

For more information or to share your opinion, residents can submit letters to the editor or guest opinions to the Arizona Daily Star.

Stay connected with Tucson’s evolving water crisis and join the conversation on how to shape a sustainable future.