Arizona’s Ag-to-Urban Initiative Launches with First Water Credit Awards
In a significant move towards sustainable development, the state of Arizona has issued its inaugural water credits under a newly established program aimed at converting agricultural water use to support urban housing growth. This initiative is set to facilitate the construction of 825 homes in Buckeye, reflecting a strategic shift in resource allocation.
The ag-to-urban program, enacted by state lawmakers earlier this year, enables agricultural landowners to sell their land and water rights to developers in regions where groundwater resources are under strict regulation, such as the West Valley. Senator T.J. Shope (R-Coolidge), the sponsor of the legislation, expressed optimism about the program, stating, “We killed two birds with one stone. We know that we have willing sellers in many cases and those willing sellers currently are members of the ag community, which we know is high water use.”
The state Department of Water Resources has indicated that more applications under the ag-to-urban scheme are underway. The project approved involves Forestar Group Inc., which anticipates conserving 437 million gallons of water annually by transitioning from agricultural to residential water use.
Buckeye Mayor Eric Orsborn highlighted the importance of the program, noting, “The ag-to-urban program is a critical tool that will support sustainable growth, help meet our region’s housing needs, and strengthen the city’s long-term water portfolio.”
Ben Bryce, an advisor from the Arizona Department of Water Resources, expressed satisfaction with the program’s early adoption by developers, which has been operational since September. “It’s a voluntary program that allows for willing sellers to partner with willing buyers to save water and to allow for new development, so we think it’s a real win,” Bryce commented.
As the state moves forward with this initiative, it reflects a broader effort to balance growth with sustainability, aiming to address housing demands while conserving precious water resources.
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