As Arizona groundwater disappears, an agricultural giant agrees to use less – Los Angeles Times

Arizona Dairy Company Commits to Sustainable Water Use in Groundwater Preservation Deal

Introduction

In a landmark agreement emphasizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 15 (Life on Land), one of Arizona’s largest farming businesses, Riverview LLP, has consented to reduce water usage and contribute $11 million to aid communities affected by groundwater depletion. This initiative aims to address critical water scarcity issues in southeastern Arizona’s Sulphur Springs Valley.

Background and Context

• Riverview LLP, a Minnesota-based dairy company, operates a large-scale dairy and farming enterprise in the Willcox area, owning over 37,000 acres.
• The region has experienced rapid groundwater depletion over the past decade, impacting local residents and ecosystems.
• Residents have faced dry wells, necessitating costly water delivery and well replacement efforts.
• This situation aligns with global challenges addressed by SDG 13 (Climate Action) due to the exacerbating effects of climate change on water resources.

Details of the Agreement

1. Water Use Reduction: Riverview will phase out irrigation on 2,000 acres of crops within 12 years, directly reducing groundwater extraction.
2. Financial Support: The company will allocate $11 million to assist residents, schools, and local water systems with water hauling, tank installation, and drilling replacement wells.
3. Commitment to Stewardship: Riverview has expressed a commitment to land and water stewardship, recognizing the importance of sustainable resource management.

Government and Community Involvement

• Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes led the negotiations, highlighting the agreement as a precedent for responsible business practices aligned with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
• The agreement followed a year of negotiations prompted by community concerns over water scarcity and environmental degradation.
• Governor Katie Hobbs’ administration has taken steps to regulate groundwater use, including establishing a new regulated area around Willcox and forming an advisory council to develop sustainable agricultural water use plans.
• Local farmers and residents have expressed cautious optimism about the agreement’s potential to promote long-term sustainability.

Challenges and Perspectives

• Environmental advocates praise the deal for acknowledging and addressing unsustainable water pumping practices.
• Some residents remain concerned about ongoing environmental impacts, such as drying creeks and threats to wildlife, reflecting the need for continued action under SDG 15.
• Smaller farms face challenges competing with large operations, highlighting socio-economic dimensions related to SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
• Legislative reforms to limit excessive groundwater use have yet to be enacted, underscoring the importance of policy development for sustainable resource management.

Implications for Sustainable Development Goals

• SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): The agreement aims to improve water availability and quality for rural communities.
• SDG 13 (Climate Action): By addressing groundwater depletion exacerbated by climate change, the deal contributes to climate resilience.
• SDG 15 (Life on Land): Protecting groundwater supports ecosystems and biodiversity in the region.
• SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Collaboration between government, business, and communities exemplifies effective partnerships for sustainable development.

Conclusion

The agreement between Arizona officials and Riverview LLP represents a significant step toward sustainable water management in a region facing critical groundwater depletion. While challenges remain, this initiative sets a precedent for balancing agricultural productivity with environmental stewardship and community well-being, aligning closely with multiple Sustainable Development Goals. Ongoing efforts and policy reforms will be essential to ensure long-term water security and ecological health in Arizona.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • The article focuses on groundwater depletion, water scarcity, and efforts to preserve water resources in Arizona.
2. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • The agreement with Riverview LLP to reduce water use reflects responsible resource management and sustainable agricultural practices.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • The article mentions global warming and its impact on water scarcity, highlighting the need for climate resilience and adaptation.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Groundwater depletion affects ecosystems, wildlife (e.g., drying of Turkey Creek), and land subsidence, linking to ecosystem conservation.
5. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Efforts to support residents with dry wells and maintain community livability relate to sustainable community development.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • Target 6.4: By 2030, substantially increase water-use efficiency across all sectors and ensure sustainable withdrawals to address water scarcity.
   • Target 6.1: Achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all (implied by support for residents with dry wells).
2. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Target 12.2: Achieve sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources, including water in agriculture.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters.
4. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Target 15.3: Combat desertification, restore degraded land and soil, including land affected by drought and water scarcity.
5. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.1: Ensure access for all to adequate, safe and affordable housing and basic services (related to water access in communities).

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Groundwater Levels and Depletion Rates
   • Measurement of groundwater table decline (e.g., 150 feet drop since 1990s in some areas).
   • Volume of groundwater extracted or conserved (e.g., stopping irrigation on 2,000 acres).
2. Number of Dry Wells and Access to Water
   • Number of residents affected by dry wells and receiving financial support for water tanks or drilling new wells.
3. Water Use Efficiency in Agriculture
   • Reduction in agricultural water pumping (e.g., Riverview’s phased reduction over 12 years, and planned 50% cut over 50 years in Willcox area).
4. Environmental Impact Indicators
   • Changes in local ecosystems, such as drying of Turkey Creek and impacts on wildlife.
   • Land subsidence and water quality deterioration as a result of groundwater depletion.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: latimes.com