CHANDLER, Ariz. – A recent Chandler City Council work session offered insight about the city’s water resources and policy adjustments being considered to meet the long-term needs of the community. Chandler’s water supplies consist of 57 percent from the Salt and Verde rivers, 37 percent from the Colorado River and the remaining six percent from groundwater sources.
With uncertainty on the availability of Colorado River water and increasing pressure on local aquifers, Chandler is taking proactive steps to prepare for long-term shortages. These steps include making investments to access future water resources, amending policies based on future expectations of water supplies and advocating for policies to protect groundwater supplies and water stored underground.
The work session discussion reviewed Chandler’s investments in projects that will improve storage capacity at the Bartlett Dam, provide operational flexibility to deliver water supplies and recharge its local aquifer. These investments will provide access to additional water supplies to serve Chandler’s future needs.
At its Feb. 20th meeting, the City Council will consider amendments to Chandler’s water allocation policy, which was adopted in 2015, to address redevelopment projects, high density residential developments and reclaimed water uses.
Chandler’s drought management plan will be updated this spring to match water supply expectations, incorporate reclaimed and landscaping uses and revise triggers to move among the drought stages. The city continues to offer water conservation incentives for grass removal and irrigation controllers as well as free water efficiency evaluations.
About 57 percent of the water consumed is for residential uses and 43 percent for non-residential uses. Chandler also has an extensive reclaimed system that recycles water for irrigation and industrial uses.
Link to Water Resources Presentation.