The “Ag-to-Urban” program is projected to conserve nearly 10 million acre-feet over its lifetime and facilitate the development of tens of thousands of new homes.
From the office of Governor Katie Hobbs
Phoenix, AZ – Today, Governor Hobbs announced the signing of Senate Bill 1611: Arizona’s “Ag-to-Urban” Groundwater Conservation Program, designed to save water while growing Arizona’s economy.
The legislation creates a voluntary program that allows high-water using irrigated lands to convert to lower water intensity development that generates massive water savings. The Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) estimates the program could save millions of acre-feet of water over its lifetime.
SB 1611 passed the Arizona Legislature with a bipartisan supermajority in the Senate, and a bipartisan majority in the House. The Ag-to-Urban legislation is continued evidence Arizona is taking steps to reduce its water use and leading the nation in innovative water management. Governor Hobbs will continue work across the aisle and build upon this momentum as Arizona fights for a fair deal in Colorado River negotiations.
Press Release via Pinal Partnership
Pinal County, AZ – Pinal Partnership applauds Governor Katie Hobbs, her staff, and the Arizona State Legislature for the successful passage of SB1611 and its mirror HB2298, landmark legislation that modernizes groundwater policy and enables the responsible transition of water from agricultural to urban use.
This pivotal legislation is the result of more than two years of collaboration between diverse stakeholders, including farmers, tribes, homebuilders, legal experts, and conservation advocates, all committed to Arizona’s long-term water future. SB1611 provides critical tools to help safeguard aquifers while giving Pinal County and the state much-needed flexibility to meet the demands of growth and sustainability.
“This is a significant moment for Pinal County and Arizona,” said Craig McFarland, President and CEO of Pinal Partnership. “We thank Governor Hobbs, her team and the Legislature for their leadership and perseverance in guiding this complex and vital legislation to the finish line. Pinal Partnership and its members were proud to play a role at the negotiating table and we’re happy to see this bill become law.”
Pinal Partnership and its Water Resources Committee have been actively involved throughout the negotiation process, ensuring that the region’s unique needs and perspectives were represented. The passage of SB1611 and its mirror HB2298 marks a major milestone in Arizona’s water policy and positions the state as a national model for practical, forward-thinking water management.
