Blaming Ag: Arizona is proposing new rural groundwater limits

Arizona has made its first move towards regulating the use of groundwater.

The state says that over the last two decades, 26 wells in the southeastern portion of the state dropped by ten feet. Blame for the rapid decline has been placed on agriculture.

If approved, the proposed Willcox Groundwater Basin Management area would be the first formed through executive action since 1980.

Such moves have been historically opposed by Arizona farm groups who say groundwater pumping regulations are not flexible enough.

Related Stories
Dr. Jeffrey Gold with the University of Nebraska joined us to explain public health in rural communities and highlight resources residents can access to stay healthy
The thief pleaded guilty and received an eight-year sentence.
“Cow goggles” are helping farmers experience cattle vision in real time, offering new tools to reduce stress, improve movement, and enhance livestock management.
Fewer interruptions could translate to improved efficiency—and fewer costly delays when timing matters most.
Faster approvals could speed projects, but may face scrutiny.
New wage rules improve accuracy but may still raise labor costs.