Calls on federal government for long-term water supply solutions

Recognizing that a reliable water supply is critical to all economies and communities relying on the drought-stricken Colorado River, Western Municipal Water District (Western) joins more than 30 water agencies and providers in taking additional actions to reduce water demands and help protect the Colorado River system.

Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that was delivered to the Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner, Camille Touton, municipal and public water providers in the Upper and Lower Colorado River Basin affirmed their commitments to implement comprehensive and innovative water conservation programs, initiatives, policies, and actions within their communities, including:

• Expanding water efficiency programs for indoor and outdoor water use.
• Implementing programs and policies reducing and replacing non-functional, decorative grass by 30 percent while protecting urban landscapes and tree canopies.
• Increasing water reuse and recycling programs where feasible.
• Implementing water efficiency strategies and best practices, such as water loss controls, conservation-based rate structures, industrial and commercial conservation, land use coordination and other suitable conservation strategies within each community.

While Western customers have demonstrated a commitment to conservation and have reduced residential water demand by 48 percent, there is more that can be accomplished. Western pledges to continue these efforts by expanding its reuse and recycle water supplies and supporting customers through increased water conservation programs. 

“While we recognize the immediate need for water conservation, we must focus on long-term supply system solutions that are capable of adapting to our changing climate,” stated Western’s General Manager, Craig Miller. “The federal government must find a way to increase the overall supply to the Colorado River Basin States. Raising current dam levels, building new reservoirs, investing in conveyance, and significant funding major local infrastructure projects. These must be a top priority.” 

Links to the Memorandum of Understanding, Water Provider Letters, Joint Letter from NGOs and Alliance for Water Efficiency Letter

The original News Release from MWD can be found on their website