The Coalition comes at a pivotal time as the Colorado River is threatened by prolonged drought, overallocation and ongoing regional tensions. The Colorado River is the lifeline of Arizona’s economy, agriculture, tribal communities and way of life.

“We are grateful to these mayors for leading at this critical time for Arizona,” said Brenda Burman, general manager, Central Arizona Project. “The Coalition represents many diverse desert communities that have one thing in common – they are water smart. These cities have shown that it’s possible to conserve water while fostering resilient economies and creating communities people are proud to call home.”

The impetus for the Coalition came from discussions with municipalities regarding water security and was championed by four Mayors across the state including City of Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, City of Tucson Mayor Regina Romero, City of Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman and City of Surprise Mayor Kevin Sartor.

• “Here in Phoenix and across the state, we rely on the Colorado River. Our cities depend on this water to sustain our communities, grow our economies and protect our future. Arizona must come together to defend and secure this vital resource.” – City of Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego

• “Any dramatic reduction or reallocation of Colorado River water that CAP delivers to its users would have significant negative implications for our total quality of life, economy and the security of our country. We want to make it clear through this coalition and our collaboration that water security is not a partisan issue. It is a shared Arizona priority that transcends political lines and regional divisions.” – City of Tucson Mayor Regina Romero

• “We are proud of Arizona’s track record on water stewardship. Today, we use less water per capita than ever before, even as our population has surpassed seven million. Our cities are proving that smart water management and economic growth can go hand in hand.” – City of Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman

• “We must act now to protect Arizona’s lifeline. Together, our voices are stronger, our message is clearer and our commitment is unwavering.” – City of Surprise Mayor Kevin Sartor

The Colorado River sustains more than 40 million people across the Southwest. It is shared by seven U.S. states— the Upper Basin (Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming) and the Lower Basin (Arizona, California, Nevada)—as well as Mexico. The Colorado River Basin is also home to 30 tribal communities.

Arizona and the Lower Basin states have consistently brought forward collaborative, science-based solutions to proactively protect the Colorado River system. Communities across Arizona have pioneered conservation programs, water reuse projects and efficient irrigation technologies to become models of responsible and smart water management.

“Central Arizona’s share of the Colorado River is foundational to our water planning, land use decisions, economic security and national defense,” said CAWCD Board President Terry Goddard. “We thank these mayors for coming together in the Coalition for Protecting Arizona’s Lifeline to advocate for our water future.”

To learn more about the Coalition and sign-up for updates visit: ProtectingArizonasLifeline.com.