Councilmember Michael Johnson's
Arizona Informant Column
April 16, 2003

Phoenix Has Adequate Water, But Don't Waste It

By now, everyone has heard or read about the drought situation affecting the entire state.

I would like to emphasize that Phoenix has adequate water supplies, but none to waste.

That is the message we in the city are telling our citizens as we recently implemented stage one of our Drought Management Plan. This was done in response to Salt River Project's (SRP) reduction of water deliveries to the city by one-third for 2003.

Stage one of Phoenix's Drought Management Plan requests that residents voluntarily reduce water use by five percent. The city is already leading the way through various measures, such as less watering of parks and municipal golf courses.

As an individual, you can help play a part. Here are a few tips on conserving water:

And remember not to over-water native plants, too. Awareness of daily water usage will help keep further effects of the four-year drought in check.

You can learn a wealth of conservation information from the web site www.wateruseitwisely.com, or by e-mailing the city of Phoenix's Water Conservation staff at conservation@phoenix.gov. An update of the city's water supply and answers to drought questions can be seen at www.phoenix.gov.

Michael Johnson is a Phoenix City Councilmember who represents District 8. His office can be reached at 602-2627493 or at michael.johnson@phoenix.gov via