The Water Resources Unit (WRU) was created in March 2011. The Unit’s function is to conduct water policy analysis, develop plans and programs to respond to emerging water policy issues and challenges; integrate and engage in countywide land use planning, water resources and stormwater management efforts; support County policies and contribute to efforts for infrastructure investment that provides cost-effective, sustainable water resources outcomes; catalogue, categorize and make recommendations on the use of the County’s water resources – surface water, groundwater and reclaimed (effluent) water and collaborate with other departments, divisions, outside agencies and educational institutions on county and state-wide water related issues.
Local Drought Impact Group (LDIG)
In response to ongoing drought conditions in Pima County, the Board of Supervisors approved a Drought Response Plan and Water Wasting Ordinance in 2006. The plan establishes methods and procedures to ensure that, in time of emergency local water supply shortage, water resources are available to the residents of unincorporated Pima County in the interest of the public health, safety and welfare. The plan established a four-stage category that corresponds to the Arizona Drought Monitor Report. Each stage declaration triggers increasingly stringent water reduction measures.
The Pima County Drought Impact Group monitors local drought conditions, provides impact assessment information to local and state leaders and implements and initiates local mitigation and response options. The water wasting provisions of the ordinance prohibit wasteful or unreasonable uses of water.
Water & Wastewater Infrastructure, Supply and Planning Study (WISP)
The City of Tucson Mayor and Council and the Pima County Board of Supervisors initiated a multi-year study of water and wastewater infrastructure, supply and planning issues (WISP). The ultimate goal of this effort is to assure a sustainable community water source given continuing pressure on water supplies caused by population growth and the environment.
A joint City/County Oversight Committee completed Phases 1 & 2 of the process and produced the 2011 – 2015 Action Plan for Water Sustainability. Future goals will seek to engage the greater metropolitan area in identifying shared values, objectives and preferred options for a sustainable water future. The Regional Water Assessment Task Force was convened by Pima Association of Governments (PAG) in 2010 to help the region shape its efforts to achieve a sustainable water future.