Western Arizona eyed as water source for major metro areas

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — An Arizona state entity charged with replenishing aquifers in major metropolitan areas is looking to western Arizona as a water source.

The Central Arizona Groundwater Replenishment District has been vetting a $34 million purchase of farmland in Mohave Valley. It wants to pay farmers to fallow land and send the water savings to central and southern Arizona.

It’s a proposal that has been met with opposition from local residents who say their future is at stake.

The seven farms on 2,200 acres have 14,000 acre-feet of Colorado River water, including coveted senior rights.

The proposal is far from final.

The Mohave Valley Irrigation and Drainage District would have to allow water to move outside its boundaries. The state water agency and the Interior Department also have a say.