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Mesa could lose nearly 12,000 acre-feet under coming Colorado River rules
Federal water rules could reduce Mesa’s Colorado River allocation by about 22% next year. City officials say decades of conservation, infrastructure upgrades and underground water storage have prepared the city, though customer costs could rise.
MESA, Ariz. — Mesa could lose nearly 12,000 acre-feet of Colorado River water under federal rules expected to take effect next year, a reduction of about 22% in the city’s supply from the river.
At an Oct. 8 study session, city officials told councilmembers the cuts are possible but said long-term planning has helped prepare Mesa. The Colorado River supplies about 45% of the city’s water.
“This is a drought, and we are going to have a reduction in water supply, but we’re pretty well-positioned to handle that,” said Joe Giudice, Mesa’s water resources director.
Giudice said the city has invested in infrastructure and stored water underground as the Colorado River’s prolonged drought has continued. Since 2000, the river has produced about 25% less water than planners anticipated, while Lakes Mead and Powell remain at low levels.
Mesa recently received the state’s 100-year water certification, which indicates the city can demonstrate sufficient water supplies for new homes and subdivisions. The certification does not remove the risk of reduced river deliveries, but officials say the city’s planning and stored supplies provide a buffer.
“There’s no reason to panic,” Giudice said, adding that residents can expect safe, reliable drinking water as the city works to develop additional supplies for future generations. He also urged residents to use water wisely.
The potential reduction could affect utility costs. Mesa City Council members are expected to consider possible utility rate increases in early December. Giudice said the changes under discussion are not final while federal officials’ decisions on Colorado River rules remain pending.