Ruben Gallego
04/16/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/16/2024 11:23
Gallego Urges Responsible Stewardship of Arizona’s Rural Groundwater
April 16, 2024
Gallego Urges Responsible Stewardship of Arizona's Rural Groundwater
Letter builds on Rep. Gallego's work to protect Arizona's groundwater for residents and small and family farms
WASHINGTON - Rep. Ruben Gallego (AZ-03)sent a letter to Riverview, LLP requesting the company improve its water resource management in Arizona. Riverview, a Minnesota-based company, operates a 51,000-acre dairy farm near Willcox, Arizona.
The letter comes after Cochise County residents expressed concerns regarding the state of the Douglas and Willcox groundwater basins at a town hall with Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes.
"I have been proud to lead Congressional efforts around smart water technologies that detect leaks, identify water loss, examine pipeline integrity, and more," Rep. Gallego writes. "I encourage you to pursue any possible improvements in your system in order to maintain water supply longevity not only for your operations, but those in your area."
He also requests answers to the following questions:
- What concrete steps is Riverview taking to conserve water throughout its Arizona operations?
- How is Riverview working with state and local authorities on water conservation solutions?
- What do you say to the residents of Cochise County who have publicly expressed concern over what they view as the farm's uncontrolled use of water?
Rep. Gallego has long fought to protect Arizona's rural groundwater, including introducing the Domestic Water Protection Act to stop the abuse of water resources by foreign governments in Arizona and other drought-stricken states.
"Arizona's agricultural community has been on the forefront of water conservation and innovation for decades," Rep. Gallego concludes. "I encourage you to prioritize efficient groundwater use in your facilities moving forward. The water supply and long-term growth of the region may depend on it."