PHX Newsroom Feature Enhancements

Annual Stormwater Awareness Campaign Encourages Residents to Help Keep Our Waterways Clean Year-round from Stormwater Pollution

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/3328

Water Services

1/16/2025 5:40:00 PM

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Annual Stormwater Awareness Campaign Encourages Residents to Help Keep Our Waterways Clean Year-round from Stormwater Pollution

<div class="ExternalClass25ABA5293D0D442FBD8C72C7DF13948C"><html> The Water Services Dept. Environmental & Safety Division invites you to learn about the City of Phoenix Stormwater Management Program during the Annual Stormwater Awareness Week on Jan. 20-26, 2025. Stormwater Awareness Week is an annual regional effort to teach simple everyday actions to reduce stormwater pollution. What is Stormwater Pollution? In Phoenix, stormwater is rainwater that flows over roads and through gutters and does not soak into the ground. This stormwater enters our storm drainpipes, which carry the water to protected surface waters like the Salt River or Skunk Creek. Unlike water we use to flush our toilets, stormwater does not go to a treatment plant. It flows from the storm drains untreated right into rivers and washes. As stormwater flows across areas like roads and parking lots and into our storm drains, it can pick up pollutants like oil and pet waste and carry them into our washes and rivers. This creates significant water quality challenges. Because pollutants can enter surface waters through our storm drain system, the city is required to have a Clean Water Act MS4 permit from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality to operate that system. What the City does to prevent Stormwater Pollution? Several Phoenix departments work together to support the MS4 permit through the Stormwater Management Program including Phoenix Water Services, Office of Planning and Development, Office of Environmental Programs, and the Street Transportation Dept. In 2024, the program added storm drain management tools and a database to help manage this complex permit, which uses infrastructure of 760 outfalls where rain flows, 80 of which are located along the Salt River. Additionally, a new stormwater post-construction program required by the permit allows owner-led inspections to minimize staffing costs. "Stormwater Awareness Week encourages our community members to take everyday actions to help protect the quality of our water,” said Berai Kimball, Deputy Water Services Director. “With our separate systems for stormwater and wastewater, it’s important to remember that stormwater doesn’t get treated and flows directly to nearby washes and retention basins, infiltrating the soil, making it imperative that we work daily to keep our water system clean.” How can residents participate in Stormwater Awareness Week? Since the campaign's initial launch in 2019, more Valley municipalities and government agencies have participated in the weeklong event. We are encouraging the public to get involved by taking steps to reduce stormwater pollution by learning more at our <a href="https://cityofphoenix.webex.com/weblink/register/rf4432881ec344b42e9dd7b602165d251" target="_blank">Virtual Workshop</a> which is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 22, at noon to discuss the City’s Stormwater Management Program and our activities to reduce stormwater pollution. Attendees are required to <a href="https://cityofphoenix.webex.com/weblink/register/rf4432881ec344b42e9dd7b602165d251" target="_blank">Register</a> in advance to participate. Simple actions to reduce stormwater pollution include: <ul style="" class="" dir=""> <li>Properly disposing of trash, recyclables, and chemicals like detergent, paint, medications, etc.</li><li>Recycling motor oil and maintaining your vehicle to prevent leak s</li> <li> Cleaning up after your pet </li> <li> Using lawn chemicals sparingly and always following manufacturers’ directions </li> <li> Properly disposing of lefto ver paint and household chemicals at a household hazardous waste event </li> <li> And please remember - only rain in the storm drain </li> </ul> To learn more about the City of Phoenix Water Services Department Stormwater Awareness Week and what you can do as an individual or business to prevent stormwater pollution, please visit <a href="/waterservices/envservices/stormwater-program" target="_blank">phoenix.gov/stormwater.</a> Media Contact: Jimena Garrison Senior Public Information Officer Water Services Cell: 480-390-1933 (call or text) E-mail: <a href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov</a> Angela Serda Public Information Specialist Water Services Cell: 623-499-8919 (call or text) E-mail: <a href="mailto:angela.serda@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">angela.serda@phoenix.gov</a> </html></div>

https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices

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water-services

Water Dept

Phoenix Water Services Department Ensures Compliance with EPA's Lead and Copper Rule

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/3269

Water Services

11/6/2024 3:00:00 PM

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Phoenix Water Services Department Ensures Compliance with EPA's Lead and Copper Rule

<div class="ExternalClass53187A4F0837413B890587D25AF542D6"><html> The Phoenix Water Services Department is committed to safeguarding the health of its residents by complying with the <a href="https://pipes.phoenix.gov/" target="_blank">Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) updated Lead and Copper Rule (LCR)</a>. The City is working diligently to identify and mitigate any potential sources of lead in its water infrastructure, ensuring that residents continue to have access to safe and clean drinking water. As part of the<a href="https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/revised-lead-and-copper-rule" target="_blank"> Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR)</a>, the City of Phoenix is required to inventory all water service lines, focusing on those installed before 1988, when lead pipe use was prohibited. The inventory will assess and categorize water service lines, including identifying those made from lead or galvanized material requiring replacement (GRR). The City submitted this comprehensive inventory of over 480,000 waterline services to the <a href="https://azdeq.gov/LeadCopperRule" target="_blank">Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ)</a> by October 16, 2024, as per federal requirements. Key Components of Phoenix Water's LCR Compliance: <ol style="" class="" dir=""> <li> Proactive Field Investigations: Since 2021, Phoenix Water has conducted over 250,000 field investigations and found no evidence of lead service lines. The City remains committed to confirming the status of any service lines listed as "unknown" and ensuring the safety of its water distribution system. </li> <li> Service Line Inventory Submission: Phoenix Water submitted a complete inventory of all service lines to ADEQ in October 2024. This inventory is a critical step in the City's ongoing efforts to comply with the updated EPA requirements. </li> <li> Notification to Residents: Starting in late 2024, Phoenix residents with GRR service lines, as well as those with service lines classified as "unknown," will receive direct notifications by mail. No existing lead service lines have been found in the City of Phoenix, but notification will be provided if any are identified. The City will also launch an online resource at pipes.phoenix.gov, where residents can access information about their service line material and stay updated on the City's lead service line replacement efforts. </li> <li> Health Education and Support: The City is dedicated to educating the public on the health risks associated with lead in drinking water. All communication will include information on health effects, steps to reduce exposure, and opportunities for service line replacement.</li> </ol> Looking Ahead: Phoenix Water will begin replacing any service lines identified as GRR or lead through a planned replacement program starting in 2025. The City will collaborate with federal, state, and local partners to secure funding for this effort, leveraging grants from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support this initiative. "As a city, we've been proactive in maintaining the highest standards for water quality. While we have found no lead service lines so far, our commitment to safety and transparency remains strong," said Troy Hayes, Director of Phoenix Water Services. "We will continue to prioritize the health of our residents as we comply with the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule." For more information on Phoenix Water's compliance with the Lead and Copper Rule and the upcoming service line replacement program, visit <a href="https://pipes.phoenix.gov/" target="_blank">pipes.phoenix.gov.</a> RELATED LINKS: <a href="https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/revised-lead-and-copper-rule" target="_blank"> https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/revised-lead-and-copper-rule </a> <a href="https://azdeq.gov/LeadCopperRule" target="_blank"> https://azdeq.gov/LeadCopperRule </a> Media Contacts: Michael Gertzman Sr. Public Information Officer Water Services 602-534-1209 <a href="mailto:michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov" target="_blank"> michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov </a> Jimena Garrison Public Information Officer Water Services 480-390-1933 <a href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov" target="_blank"> jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov </a> About Phoenix Water Services: Phoenix Water Services provides high-quality, reliable water to the City of Phoenix, serving over 1.7 million residents. The department is committed to maintaining water quality, promoting sustainability, and ensuring compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations. </html></div>

https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices

News

water-services

Water Dept

Phoenix Introduces New Residential Grass Removal Incentive to Promote Water Conservation

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/3259

Water Services

10/30/2024 4:00:00 PM

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Phoenix Introduces New Residential Grass Removal Incentive to Promote Water Conservation

<div class="ExternalClass969193966D7C4D38B6C4FBA2520FF25B"><html> Phoenix Water Services has launched a new program offering financial assistance to homeowners who replace their lawns with water-efficient, desert-adapted landscapes. The initiative encourages residents to reduce outdoor water use by receiving $2 per square foot for removing grass. This effort not only conserves water but could also help residents save money on their water bills. It’s part of the City's broader commitment to sustainable urban living in a desert climate. The <a href="/waterservices/residential-grass-incentives" target="_blank">Residential Grass Removal Program</a> is open to Phoenix Water Services customers who own their homes and meet the eligibility requirements. Homeowners must remove at least 250 square feet of living grass to be eligible for the financial incentive. The program also provides access to educational resources and workshops to help participants design water-wise landscapes. By choosing drought-tolerant plants, homeowners can significantly reduce their outdoor water consumption and cut back on yard maintenance. Key Highlights of the Incentive Program: <ul style="" class="" dir=""> <li>Receive $2 per square foot for removing at least 250 square feet of grass.</li> <li>Grass must be alive and healthy at a minimum of 75% density of the area to be removed.</li> <li>Access to educational workshops for landscape design assistance.</li> <li>Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.</li> </ul> "Converting traditional grass lawns to desert landscaping is one of the most effective ways to conserve water in Phoenix," said Cynthia Campbell, Water Resources Management Advisor. "This program allows homeowners to enhance the beauty of their yards while reducing water usage and contributing to the City's conservation goals. It's a win-win for both residents and the environment." Additional Residential Water Conservation Incentives In addition to the grass removal incentive, Phoenix Water Services offers up to $75 for the installation of <a href="/waterservices/toilet-and-irrigationcontroller-incentives" target="_blank">WaterSense-labeled high-efficiency toilets and smart irrigation controllers</a>. These products help conserve water by optimizing water use indoors and in landscape irrigation systems. Homeowners can combine these offerings to maximize water savings and reduce their overall utility bills. Non-Residential Grass Removal Program The City also provides an incentive for <a href="/waterservices/nonresidentialincentives" target="_blank">non-residential customers</a>, including businesses, schools, and homeowner's associations (HOAs). This program offers $2 per square foot for the removal of non-functional grass, encouraging commercial properties to switch to desert-adapted landscapes and contribute to citywide water conservation efforts. For more information about water conservation, visit <a href="/waterservices/savewater" target="_blank">phoenix.gov/savewater.</a> Media Contacts: Michael Gertzman Sr. Public Information Officer Water Services 602-534-1209 <a href="mailto:michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov" target="_blank"> michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov </a> Jimena Garrison Public Information Officer Water Services 480-390-1933 <a href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov" target="_blank"> jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov </a> </html></div>

https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices

News

water-services

Water Dept

Tres Rios Wetlands Prescribed Burn Planned for October

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/3237

Water Services

10/9/2024 3:15:00 PM

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Tres Rios Wetlands Prescribed Burn Planned for October

<div class="ExternalClassF120AB51F26F40709CA62B829A1721DF"><html> The City of Phoenix, in coordination with the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM), is planning to conduct a prescribed burn at the Tres Rios Wetlands in October 2024. The burn is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 16, but that is subject to change depending on the weather conditions and other factors. The event is expected to produce a significant smoke plume visible in southwest Phoenix and the surrounding areas, and 91st Avenue will be closed from the 91st Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant North Gate to Baseline Road from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 91st Avenue may open sooner if safe to do so. The primary purpose of the operation is to reduce dense vegetation and is part of the ongoing process of restoring vital riparian habitat. Fire is nature's way of providing nutrients to the soil, removing invasive species of plant life, and improving the overall health of an ecosystem. Why is Burning Necessary? Previous attempts to mechanically maintain Tres Rios vegetation have proven to be time-consuming and cost-prohibitive. After researching alternative methods, the Phoenix Water Services Department identified prescribed burns as an optimal means to maintain the wetlands. Additionally, a prescribed burn reduces hazardous fuels, protecting surrounding communities from extreme fire. Why is the Burn Planned for October? Per the United States Fish and Wildlife Service Tres Rios Safe Harbor Agreement, prescribed burns may be conducted from October through February to avoid impacts during the breeding season. October has been identified as the ideal time to conduct the Tres Rios Prescribed Burn, but that could change depending on weather conditions and other external factors. How Big is the Burn Area? One entire Tres Rios Flow Regulating Wetland (FRW) cell is allowed to be burned annually. The prescribed burn will target FRW-2 cell, which is approximately 50 acres in size, as identified in the figure below. <img style="margin:5px;width:200px;" alt="Aerial Photo showing area of Tres Rios to be burned" src="/waterservicessite/MediaAssets/TR_Burn_area_2024.png" /> How Will the Fire Be Extinguished? After the prescribed burn is completed, a water truck will spray the perimeter of the cell to extinguish any smoldering flames. Water quality will be monitored and confirmed acceptable before the release of water from the cell to the Tres Rios Overbank Wetlands. That will include allowing sufficient time for any fire debris to settle out and completion of a water quality sampling plan. What is the Phoenix Fire Department's Role? The Phoenix Fire Department will administer the prescribed burn with supervision from the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. The prescribed burn will also serve as a training opportunity for the Phoenix Fire Department's Wildland Urban Interface program, which will provide Phoenix firefighters with the necessary skills, certification, and experience to battle wildfires that threaten the City of Phoenix. In addition, the prescribed burn may also give the Phoenix Police Department's Firebird helicopter crew a training opportunity. The specific training will be focused on the following certifications necessary to coordinate and fight wildfires safely and effectively: <div> <ul> <li>Wildland Firefighting 1 and 2</li> <li>Wildland Engine Boss</li> <li>Strike Team Leader</li> <li>Task Team Leader</li> <li>Incident Commander Type 4</li> <li>Burn Boss </li> <li>Drone Mapping and Incident Command integration training </li> </ul> </div> <div> Who is Involved with the Prescribed Burn? </div> <div> <div> <ul> <li>United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) </li> <li>United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)</li> <li>Gila River Indian Community (GRIC)</li> <li>Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD)</li> <li>Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ)</li> <li>Phoenix-Goodyear Airport</li> <li>Sky Harbor International Airport</li> <li>Arizona Public Service (APS) </li> <li>Salt River Project (SRP)</li> <li>Emergency 911 Call Center</li> <li>Residents and other stakeholders </li> </ul> </div> <div> What are the Tres Rios Wetlands?</div><div> </div><div>The Tres Rios Wetlands receives reclaimed water from the 91st Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant and are maintained by the City of Phoenix Water Services Department. </div><div> </div><div>The Tres Rios Environmental Restoration project involves the rehabilitation of nearly 700 acres in and around the Salt River, restoring a vital wetland and riparian habitat. It consists of the Tres Rios Flow Regulating Wetlands (FRWs) and Tres Rios Overbank Wetlands (OBWs). They are located just west of 91st Avenue, south of Broadway Road. The Tres Rios FRWs receive treated wastewater from the 91st Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant and act as the final polishing step in the treatment process. Reclaimed water is then discharged from the FRWs to the OBWs before being conveyed back to the Salt River. The Tres Rios FRWs are closed to the public. However, the Tres Rios OBWs are open to the public through a free access permit system.</div><div> </div><div>The lush and scenic Tres Rios is now home to more than 150 species of birds and animals like muskrats, raccoons, skunks, coyotes, bobcats, and beavers. The beautiful cottonwood groves, willows, mesquites, and other desert shrubs around the reed-lined ponds and along the trail attract many migratory and wintering songbirds.</div><div> </div><div>Media Access:</div><div> </div><div>Members of the media interested in covering the event should call or email the media contacts listed below for guidance on how to access the area. Fire experts will be available on-site for interviews. For safety reasons and to avoid disruptions to operations, we kindly ask that no drones be flown in or around the prescribed burn area.</div><div> </div><div>Media Contacts: </div><div> </div><div>Michael Gertzman</div><div>Senior Public Information Officer </div><div>Phoenix Water Services Dept.</div><div>602-534-1209 </div><div><a style="font-size:13.3333px;" href="mailto:michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov</a></div><div> </div><div><a style="font-size:13.3333px;" href="mailto:michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov" target="_blank"></a>Capt. Rob McDade</div><div>Phoenix Fire Dept.</div><div>480-216-9712 </div><div><a style="font-size:13.3333px;" href="mailto:robert.mcdade@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">robert.mcdade@phoenix.gov</a> </div> </div> </html></div>

https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices

News

water-services

Water Dept

City of Phoenix Applauds ADEQ's Advanced Water Purification Initiative

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/3157

Water Services

7/9/2024 9:55:00 PM

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City of Phoenix Applauds ADEQ's Advanced Water Purification Initiative

<div class="ExternalClass348971965D8F497FAAC49C44D2D3C5D7"><html> The City of Phoenix supports the <a href="https://azdeq.gov/pr/awp-rules" target="_blank">Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) draft rules for the Advanced Water Purification (AWP) Program</a>. These rules lay the groundwork for innovative projects that convert treated wastewater into safe, reliable drinking water, significantly bolstering Arizona's water resources. Phoenix has been a leader in sustainable water management and is actively advancing AWP facilities. The City, in a collaborative effort with partner cities and other stakeholders, plans to build a state-of-the-art regional AWP plant at the 91st Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant by 2030, which could produce 60 million gallons of potable water daily, providing enough water for 200,000 households. This facility will reduce dependence on the Colorado River and support the Valley's growing population. Mayor Kate Gallego stated, "This project is a crucial step in securing our water future and reducing our reliance on the Colorado River. By investing in advanced water purification, we are ensuring a sustainable water supply for generations to come. We are excited to support ADEQ's efforts and lead the way in innovative water management." In addition to the 91st Avenue plant, Phoenix is exploring the potential of <a href="/newsroom/water-services/3015" target="_blank">the Cave Creek Water Reclamation Plant</a> to serve as an AWP facility. This would further expand the City's capacity to treat and reuse wastewater, showcasing Phoenix's commitment to sustainable and resilient water solutions. Phoenix Water Services Director Troy Hayes added, "The advanced water purification technology we are implementing will set a new standard for water treatment in the region. By treating and reusing wastewater, we can provide a reliable and safe water source that meets all drinking water standards. This project exemplifies our dedication to sustainability and resource management." The City of Phoenix encourages public participation in ADEQ's review process. To provide feedback on the draft rule, visit <a href="https://azdeq.commentinput.com/?id=VKBRkugJj" target="_blank">ADEQ's public comment page</a>. About City of Phoenix Water Services Department The City of Phoenix Water Services Department is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable, and sustainable water services to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Phoenix. With a commitment to water conservation, innovation, and long-term planning, the department ensures a secure and resilient water supply for future generations. <a href="https://phoenix.gov/water" target="_blank">For more information, visit</a> <a href="https://phoenix.gov/water" target="_blank">phoenix.gov/water.</a> Media Contacts: Michael Gertzman Sr. Public Information Officer Water Services 602-534-1209 <a href="mailto:michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov</a> Jimena Garrison Public Information Officer Water Services 480-390-1933 <a href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov</a> </html></div>

https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices

News

water-services

Water Dept

Phoenix City Council Renews Partnership with National Forest Foundation for Forest Restoration and Watershed Enhancement

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/3139

Water Services

6/20/2024 2:10:00 PM

https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3139/Newsroom_Water_NFF_SRP_Roosevelt_Dam.jpg

Phoenix City Council Renews Partnership with National Forest Foundation for Forest Restoration and Watershed Enhancement

<div class="ExternalClass537C040220F14965AF6305EEDB92E1C6"><html> The Phoenix City Council has voted to approve the Authorization to Enter into an Agreement with the National Forest Foundation (NFF) to conduct forest restoration and watershed enhancement projects (Ordinance S-50902). This decision marks a significant step in the city’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the quality and sustainability of its water supply from the Salt and Verde rivers. The agreement, valued at $2,000,000 over ten years, will enable the City of Phoenix to continue its partnership with the NFF, which began in 2015. The projects funded by this partnership focus on reducing wildfire risks, enhancing soil stability, improving hydrology, and restoring riparian habitats. These efforts are crucial for maintaining the health of the watersheds that provide more than half of the city’s raw water supply. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego expressed her support for the initiative, stating, "The health of our forests directly impacts the quality of our water. This partnership with the National Forest Foundation is vital for protecting our water supply and ensuring a sustainable future for Phoenix. We are proud to continue this collaboration and invest in the long-term health of our watersheds." Troy Hayes, Director of the Phoenix Water Services Department, highlighted the importance of proactive measures. "Forest fires pose a significant threat to our water quality. By investing in forest restoration and watershed enhancement projects, we are taking a proactive approach to safeguard our water resources. This partnership with the NFF is an essential component of our strategy to ensure clean and reliable water for our community." Cynthia Campbell, Phoenix's Water Resources Management Advisor, added, "Healthy forests are the foundation of a healthy watershed. Through this agreement, we can mitigate the impacts of wildfires and protect the Salt and Verde rivers, which are critical to our water supply. This continued partnership with the NFF will help us build resilience against future water resource challenges." The projects under this agreement will include sediment reduction, soil stability improvement, fire and flood risk reduction, and riparian restoration. Notable ongoing and upcoming projects include the restoration of the Lower Salt River, erosion control along the Highline Trail, and fire risk reduction in Pine Canyon. Since 2015, the partnership between Phoenix and the NFF has resulted in numerous successful projects, earning accolades such as the Crescordia and President’s Award for Sustainability Champion from Arizona Forward. The new agreement will allow for further collaborative efforts to enhance the sustainability and resiliency of the Salt-Verde watershed. A bout City of Phoenix Water Services Department The City of Phoenix Water Services Department is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable, and sustainable water services to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Phoenix. With a commitment to water conservation, innovation, and long-term planning, the department ensures a secure and resilient water supply for future generations. For more information, visit <a target="_blank" href="https://phoenix.gov/water">phoenix.gov/water</a>. Media Contact: Michael Gertzman Sr. Public Information Officer Water Services 602-534-1209 <a target="_blank" href="mailto:michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov"> michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov </a> Jimena Garrison Public Information Officer Water Services 480-390-1933 <a target="_blank" href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov"> jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov </a> </html></div>

https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices

News

water-services

Water Dept

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego Launches "Save Water Pledge" to Promote Water Conservation

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/3084

Water Services

5/1/2024 4:25:00 PM

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Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego Launches "Save Water Pledge" to Promote Water Conservation

<div class="ExternalClass600B371392454C81AEB8F69AF19AA178"><html> Mayor Kate Gallego is excited to announce the launch of the "Save Water Pledge," a new initiative designed to bolster the City's water conservation efforts amidst a severe drought. Starting May 1, 2024, and continuing through April 30, 2025, the campaign, which is part of a broader initiative to ensure Phoenix remains a sustainable desert city, encourages participants to commit to practical water-saving actions. "Water is the lifeblood of our community here in Phoenix, and conserving this precious resource is more crucial now than ever," said Mayor Gallego. "The Save Water Pledge is not just a campaign; it's a commitment we make today for a sustainable tomorrow. I urge every Phoenix resident to join us in this vital effort." The "Save Water Pledge" includes simple yet effective measures that Phoenix residents can adopt to reduce water usage, such as fixing leaks, utilizing water-efficient appliances, and adopting smart watering practices that reflect seasonal weather conditions. Participants can sign up through the City's Save Water page, <a target="_blank" href="https://phoenix.gov/savewaterpledge">phoenix.gov/savewaterpledge</a>, where they can also find resources and tips for reducing water usage. The campaign is set to feature various educational resources and community events designed to raise awareness about water conservation techniques and the importance of water sustainability. Residents who sign up for the pledge will receive regular updates and tips on how to conserve water. For more information on the Save Water Pledge or to sign up, please visit <a target="_blank" href="https://phoenix.gov/savewaterpledge.">phoenix.gov/savewaterpledge.</a> About City of Phoenix Water Services Department The City of Phoenix Water Services Department is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable, and sustainable water services to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Phoenix. With a commitment to water conservation, innovation, and long-term planning, the department ensures a secure and resilient water supply for future generations. For more information, visit <a target="_blank" href="https://phoenix.gov/water">phoenix.gov/water</a>. Media Contacts: Michael Gertzman Sr. Public Information Officer Water Services 602-534-1209 <a target="_blank" href="mailto:michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov">michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov</a> Jimena Garrison Public Information Officer Water Services 480-390-1933 <a target="_blank" href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov">jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov</a> </html></div>

https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices

News

water-services

Water Dept

New Drought Simulation Game Tests Residents’ Ability to Manage a City’s Water Portfolio

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/3033

Water Services

2/26/2024 7:34:00 PM

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New Drought Simulation Game Tests Residents’ Ability to Manage a City’s Water Portfolio

<div class="ExternalClass7F036458F3DC4A68BEE16FF8D7DF1AE5"><html> What does it take to manage a city’s water portfolio, especially during a historic drought? The Phoenix Water Services Department’s Conservation Team invites you to test your knowledge about water resources and long-term planning by playing the new Drought Simulation Game (Drought Sim). In the simulation game, players are assigned the role of water policymaker for a large city – impacted by a difficult drought – and that serves families, companies, and farms. City leaders are up against the clock, needing to resolve water shortages within three years. Through an interactive dashboard, players have nine rounds to choose the best policies and programs that not only benefit residents, but also lower water use and water costs before it’s too late and the city runs out of water. While this dire scenario was created for educational purposes, cities across the United States face various complexities in the short-term and long-term management of water resources. In the City of Phoenix, strategic planning related to water conservation has been a goal for more than 100 years. As a result, Phoenix has a robust and diverse water portfolio and is always looking for ways to augment supplies while encouraging residents to embrace a culture of conservation. “Water is complicated, but every community relies on this vital resource to thrive,” said Elijah Tangenberg, a Water Resource Specialist and co-creator of Drought Sim. “We wanted to develop this game to help the average resident understand why water management choices are made and how those choices impact everyday lives.” Through active listening and community outreach, the team was inspired to design this hands-on resource to help residents better understand why it’s important to protect our water supply and what’s at stake each time a water management decision is made, no matter how small. “The Phoenix Water conservation team’s goal was to engage people through a game that empowers learners,” said Virginia Svec, a Water Resource Specialist and co-creator of Drought Sim. “Players must use critical thinking skills to make drought policy decisions for their city yet balance economic and societal factors to meet the needs of each citizen.” Drought Sim is currently in the beta testing phase and the public’s feedback is important to make improvements for future use in classrooms. If your school or organization would like to play Drought Sim and provide feedback, please email <a target="_blank" href="mailto:conservation@phoenix.gov">conservation@phoenix.gov.</a> About City of Phoenix Water Services Department The City of Phoenix Water Services Department is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable, and sustainable water services to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Phoenix. With a commitment to water conservation, innovation, and long-term planning, the department ensures a secure and resilient water supply for future generations. For more information, visit <a target="_blank" href="https://phoenix.gov/water">phoenix.gov/water.</a> Media Contacts: Jimena Garrison Public Information Officer Water Services 480-390-1933 <a target="_blank" href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov"> jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov </a> </html></div>

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