Peoria joins other Valley cities in implementing first stage of drought management plan

PHOENIX — Peoria on Wednesday became the latest Valley city to announce implementation of the first stage of its drought management plan.

Stage one of the West Valley city’s plan doesn’t involve mandatory restrictions or affect its ability to deliver water.

The plan instead is meant to raise awareness and asks residents for voluntary water-usage reduction in light of continued Colorado River shortages.

“Managing long-term and effective water programs is a complex undertaking and one that requires strategic planning and constant scrutiny,” Mayor Cathy Carlat said in a press release.

“Fortunately, Peoria has been preparing for these conditions for many years, and we are not surprised by the current drought conditions in Arizona.”

Peoria said it has been planning for drought conditions for years, including signing a 100-year lease with the Gila River Indian Community for additional Central Arizona Project water.

The city also constructed the Greenway Water Treatment Plant to utilize Salt River Project water.

“Our city remains committed to taking action to reduce our water use, while expanding water re-use infrastructure and implementing education and conservation resources for our community,” Carlat said.

Mesa, Phoenix, Tempe, Glendale and Chandler have also implemented drought management plans this year.

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