The CAWCD Board, which met Thursday, Feb. 3, approved $382,835 in additional funding for a new pilot study using N-Drip technology for milo irrigation on Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) land in Western Arizona. As part of this study, N-Drip will provide and install irrigation technology and provide field support to the CRIT growers. CRIT is contributing a total of 286 acres, including control fields that will use traditional flood irrigation. Under a separate contract, the University of Arizona will monitor crop and soil conditions on both fields. Collaborative partnerships like this focus on cost-effective solutions to allow agriculture to thrive while conserving Colorado River water. You can learn more about this Board action here.
The Board heard several presentations. Links are provided below for those who would like more detail:
- Pool 34 activities and systemwide hydrology risk – report on repairs from damage sustained during a July 25, 2021 storm as well as an overview of improvements that may be necessary due to the changing hydrology and climate
- Verde Reservoirs Sediment Mitigation Appraisal Study – update on this sediment mitigation study of SRP reservoirs in which CAWCD is a cost-share partner
- Colorado River Conditions – showing Lake Mead at 35% capacity as we concluded the first month under a Tier 1 Colorado River shortage
- Activities related to 1030’ consultation – including a report on the development of Arizona’s conservation agreements to support the 500+ Plan
The CAWCD Board of Directors is a popularly elected, 15-member board. Ten members are from Maricopa County, four from Pima County and one from Pinal. Members serve six-year, unpaid terms. The board typically meets publicly the first Thursday of each month to establish policy and set rates and taxes for CAP. Meetings are open to the public, in person and via livestream. Due to COVID-19 protocols, face coverings are currently required.
For additional details on the February board meeting, take a look at the agenda and packet. Board minutes and video will be posted here, as well.
KRA: Public Trust, Partnerships & Leadership
Earning and preserving public trust, building and maintaining partnerships, and providing informed water management leadership
