CWAG is often asked: "How long will our water last?" While scientists can’t accurately answer this question, they do know that the groundwater that supplies Quad City residents is being pumped at a far greater rate than it is being replenished. This situation (called overdraft), has already resulted in hundreds of failing family wells, and is poised to threaten the upper Verde River and the very livability of our rural areas. Water experts from the Citizens Water Advocacy Group (CWAG) explained the dangers of the overdraft and present ways to achieve sustainable water use at a CWAG-sponsored Zoom Webinar.

Gary Beverly, CWAG president with Ed Wolf, CWAG Board member, discussed how groundwater from the Little Chino and Agua Fria aquifers is used and why current methods of recharge cannot offset the unsustainable drop in aquifer levels that is impacting family wells and rural life. Gary also addressed how the overdraft jeopardizes the health of the upper Verde River and the habitats it provides.

This presentation includes ways in which Quad Cities leaders can work together to update water management policies and institute conservation programs to reduce the overdraft and help protect our water for the future. New development accelerates the depletion of the aquifers, and while current water management policies are based on legally permitted groundwater pumping, they turn a blind eye to the reality of falling aquifer levels. Without attaining sustainable groundwater use, cities and towns may well face a very expensive future water shortage, with some rural areas becoming unlivable.

Gary Beverly holds a PhD degree in Physical Chemistry from the University of California. He joined CWAG in 2010 and previously taught physical science and alternative energy at Yavapai College, and also worked as a farmer, contractor, and businessman.

Ed Wolfe, Ph.D., is a geologist retired from the U.S. Geological Survey and a founding member of CWAG. He is a former chairman of the Verde Watershed Association, former chairman of the Verde River Basin Partnership’s Technical Advisory Group, and former chairman of the Partnership’s Board of Directors.