Droughts In Arizona

An ongoing drought in the state of Arizona has left the region with minimal water and threatens to lower the amount of water present within the Colorado River. This imminent decrease in the volume of the Colorado River affects regions that are supported by the Central Arizona Project, an aqueduct system delivering water from the Colorado River to central and southern Arizona. Among its chief users are farmers, cities, and tribes. This shortage of water could lead to a lower crop-yield which could potentially bankrupt farmers meaning this issue could have widespread impact on the livelihood of thousands of Americans residing in the Copper State.

In light of the Colorado River’s water supply decreasing, Arizona’s volume of water-entitlement has proportionately decreased. This year, the state is expected to reduce its water usage by 192,000 acre-feet (where one acre-foot corresponds with one acre of land being covered by one foot of water). By 2022, that number will have to more than double to 512,000 acre-feet. This is a drastic change, and will likely warrant heavy governmental regulation regarding consumer use of water.

Arizona has already experienced troubles related to crops as a result of Congressional restrictions regarding foreign labor. Policies focused on the repellence of immigrants have drastically decreased the number of immigrant laborers from nations such as Mexico who would previously come to the southern portion of the United States in search of farm labor employment. These restrictions have resulted in a smaller farming workforce in states like Arizona threatening the billion-dollar industry as farms in this state remain understaffed. The combination of this understaffing with the impending water shortage could prove disastrous.

To help offset drought-related losses, federal disaster loans are being made available to business owners in all 15 counties in Arizona. The U.S. Small Business Administration is making these available to businesses directly impacted by the drought, as well as businesses who are impacted by the decreased output of these primarily impacted businesses. Those eligible for these low-interest loans can receive up to $2 million dollars. Unfortunately, farm and ranch related businesses are not qualified to receive these federal disaster loans; however, they can still contact the Farm Services Agency for alternative aid.

Overall, the drought that Arizona is facing can have negative effects upon the state economy, and on a more personal level, the livelihood of thousands of individuals and families. Habitats may be destroyed and wildlife and vegetation might face endangerment as well. It is important, however, to remember that new technologies and innovations are constantly being developed to help combat the negative effects of natural disasters. In conclusion, it is necessary to create a solution to maintain the Colorado River’s water supply immediately.

For more information regarding the available loans, visit:

https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/

To help contribute to people affected by the disaster, visit:

https://www.redcross.org/local/az-nm/ways-to-donate.html