Rio Verde, AZ – For many residents of Rio Verde, a small community located northeast of Scottsdale, access to clean and safe water has become an increasingly pressing issue. Over the past few years, the town has experienced a water crisis that has left many residents without access to adequate water supplies.
The crisis began when the town’s primary source of water, the Verde River, began to dry up due to a combination of climate change and increased demand for water from neighboring communities. As a result, the town was forced to rely on groundwater sources, which have proven to be insufficient to meet the needs of the town’s growing population.
The situation has been compounded by the town’s aging infrastructure. Many of the town’s pipes and water systems are outdated and in need of repair, leading to leaks and water loss. Additionally, the town’s water treatment plant is outdated and unable to effectively treat the groundwater, leading to concerns about the safety of the water supply.
Residents have been vocal about their concerns and frustration with the situation. Many have reported discolored and foul-smelling water coming from their taps, and some have even reported health issues as a result of the poor water quality.
“I can’t even brush my teeth with this water,” said resident Mary Johnson. “It’s just not safe.”
The crisis has also had a significant impact on the town’s economy. Rio Verde is a popular retirement destination, and the water crisis has led many potential residents to look elsewhere. The town’s golf courses and other recreational areas, which rely on water to maintain their lush greenery, have also been affected.
In response to the crisis, town officials have taken a number of steps to address the situation. These include implementing water conservation measures, such as limiting outdoor watering and encouraging residents to install low-flow fixtures, as well as exploring new sources of water.
However, these efforts have been met with mixed results. While some residents have been supportive of the conservation measures, others have been resistant, arguing that they should not be forced to limit their water usage when neighboring communities continue to consume large amounts of water.
The town has also faced financial constraints in its efforts to address the crisis. Upgrading the town’s water infrastructure and treatment plant would require significant investment, and the town has struggled to secure the necessary funding.
Despite these challenges, town officials remain committed to finding a solution to the water crisis. They have called on state and federal officials to provide additional support and funding, and have continued to explore new sources of water.
Latest Update: Scottsdale approves deal to restore water deliveries
The Scottsdale City Council members have approved a proposal that would, according to officials, reopen a supply of water for people in the Rio Verde Foothills area.
Under the three-year deal, Scottsdale would treat water from a third-party source, and Maricopa County would deliver it to Rio Verde homes. It would be paid for by county fees and impact about 1,000 residents.
If water resources are reduced for any reason, including drought, the city will reduce deliveries to Rio Verde Foothills.
Residents in the area say times have been tough since Scottsdale ended water deliveries.
“My husband and I have lived for 52 days on rainwater, and it’s very difficult to keep going like that. We need some sort of help,” said Leigh Harris.
“In a very short amount of time, people are going to start running out of water,” said one person during the public comment period of the city council meeting.
The measure was reportedly passed unanimously. The deal will now go to Maricopa County for final approval.
After Scottsdale’s approval, Harris said the plan really is a temporary solution to a problem brought on by the megadrought.
“Focus on what’s happening at Lake Mead and Lake Powell, because we’re really the tip of the spear that is piercing the body Southwest,” said Harris.