The Cochise Groundwater Stewards wholeheartedly welcome and support today’s historic announcement by ADWR Director, Tom Buschatzke, to designate the Willcox Groundwater Basin as a subsequent Active Management Area (AMA) as authorized under the 1980 Groundwater Management Act.
This announcement is a milestone in a long journey by local residents and farmers to address the consequences of the significant groundwater overdraft that threatens the long-term water security of the residents, farmers and businesses in the Willcox Basin.
Groundwater levels are declining across most of the basin – as much as 10 feet per year in some areas. There is widespread subsidence throughout the basin of 1 to 2 inches per year with rates as high as 3.5 inches per year in some areas. Nearly 50 miles of earth fissures have been mapped in the basin. Rates of groundwater decline, subsidence, and fissure activity have all accelerated over the past 15 years resulting in dry wells and damage to homes and infrastructure. These consequences were well documented by ADWR and form the factual documentation that justified today’s decision.
Reflecting the sentiments of the many residents who support the AMA, local resident, Lou Manuta, said, “This is an historic day for the people who call the Willcox Basin their home. Today’s announcement is a necessary first step to protect our precious groundwater for future generations as all of our lives and livelihoods rely on the water to survive and thrive. We look forward to working together with ADWR and all local stakeholders as the AMA process moves forward.”
As this process gets underway, we ask our state legislature to consider new legislation that will provide more local control, flexibility and the tools and resources for rural areas like the Willcox Basin to better meet the unique and significant challenges of securing our water future for many generations to come.
The Cochise Groundwater Stewards are a local, grass roots group of Willcox Basin residents working to protect our groundwater resources. Contact us at cochisegroundwaterstewards@gmail.com or text Steve Kisiel at 623-999-6566. Website: https://cochisewaterfuture.org.