Phoenix discusses water supply from Colorado River and local watersheds

The City of Phoenix held a Water Wrangler Volunteer Training session on July 18, 2025, focusing on the fundamentals of water sources and the water cycle. The meeting aimed to educate volunteers on the importance of water conservation and management in the region.

The session began with an overview of Phoenix's drinking water sources, highlighting that the city relies on four main supplies: the Colorado River, the Salt River, the Verde River, and groundwater. The Colorado River, which serves as a regional water supply for multiple states and countries, accounts for 40% of Phoenix's drinking water. The Salt and Verde Rivers contribute to the local supply, while groundwater is treated as a non-renewable resource, making up only 2% of the city's water deliveries. The training emphasized the need to conserve groundwater due to its slow recharge rate.

Participants learned about the concept of watersheds, defined as areas where water drains into a low point, and were encouraged to observe their surroundings to identify the highest and lowest points in their environment. The session illustrated how water travels through Arizona's landscapes, using examples such as the Grand Falls and the West Fork of the Little Colorado River to demonstrate the diversity of river systems in the state.

The training also covered the complexities of the water cycle, which was described as a system rather than a linear cycle. The discussion included the processes of evaporation, condensation, precipitation, runoff, and infiltration. Volunteers were taught how these processes interact and affect water distribution, emphasizing the significance of understanding stormwater management in urban areas.

Overall, the meeting provided essential knowledge for volunteers, equipping them with the tools to educate others about water conservation and the intricate systems that govern water resources in Phoenix. The city plans to continue these training sessions to foster community engagement in water stewardship.