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USDA hints loan for groundwater could jeopardize federal funds
The federal government is warning irrigation districts in Pinal County that using a $20 million state loan to drill new wells to replace Colorado River water they are losing as part of the drought contingency plan could cost them.
Ducey firm in belief cotton farming should continue in desert
Gov. Doug Ducey said Friday he sees no reason for farmers to give up growing cotton in the desert, even with the ongoing drought situation.
Bowers yanks contentious water bill that threatened drought plan
After House Speaker Rusty Bowers created a kerfuffle by pushing a bill that threatened to tank Arizona’s efforts to sign onto a multi-state drought plan and craft a similar intrastate plan, he asked at the last minute for the contentious proposal to be held.
Lawmaker seeks $20M in groundwater funding for Pinal farmers
After the Legislature passed a broad package of water reforms last month, one lawmaker seeks additional funding for Pinal County farmers that wasn’t appropriated in the drought plan.
Ducey signs ‘historic’ Colorado River drought plan legislation
The governor and lawmakers celebrated passage of the Drought Contingency Plan bills as a “historic” moment that showed the state could work together to head off drastic water shortfalls on the Colorado River.
Gila River threatens to pull out of drought contingency plan
The Gila River Indian Community is threatening to blow up the drought contingency plan because of efforts it says will undermine its claim to water rights.
Democrats: Water plan missing conservation requirement
House Democrats are balking at ratifying a proposed drought contingency plan over what they see as a key missing element.
Cities, farmers fight over water conservation plan
An organization that represents major Arizona cities is effectively warning Pinal County farmers not to demand more in the proposed drought contingency plan.
Legislature to tackle omnibus drought plan bill
State legislators will have mere weeks to pass a complex Colorado River drought plan by Jan. 31 — the deadline imposed by federal officials.
Population growth brings fiscal, political power to AZ cities
If you’re wondering where Arizona is putting all of its new residents, look to the far suburbs.
Ducey threatens veto of water bill that ignores his principles
Gov. Doug Ducey threatened Tuesday to veto any drought contingency plan that does not equitably divide up the pain of Arizona having less water in 2020 and eventually leads to lower water use in the state.
Blue county adopts merit selection, gives Ducey final say on judges
This election cycle, Coconino County became the first Arizona county to voluntarily switch to a merit selection system for choosing judges.
