From Doomsday Mom to Arizona's water crisis, a look at our top explainer stories of 2023
As we get ready for 2024, we are also taking a look at some of our top explainer stories on our website throughout 2023.
Tensions are bubbling up at thirsty Arizona alfalfa farms as foreign firms exploit unregulated water
La Paz County Supervisor Holly Irwin welcomes a recent crackdown by Arizona officials on unfettered groundwater pumping long allowed in rural areas, noting local concerns about dried up wells and subsidence that’s created ground fissures and flooding during heavy rains.
Federal officials say plan for water cuts from Arizona, 2 other states is enough to protect Colorado River
Federal officials said Wednesday that conditions have improved on the Colorado River to the point that a plan by California, Arizona and Nevada to voluntarily reduce water use should help keep the river basin on stable footing for the next few years.
Water to begin flowing again in the Rio Verde Foothills: 'A big day'
The long-running saga of the Rio Verde Foothills' fight for water is about to end. The community became a warning sign for desert living as it struggled to find a reliable and affordable water supply for the past year.
Arizona ends water lease with Saudi Arabia-owned farm, other companies
Fondomonte uses sprinklers to grow alfalfa in La Paz County and exports it to feed dairy cattle in Saudi Arabia. The company does not pay for the water it uses.
Louisiana governor requests federal help as Mississippi River saltwater intrusion threatens drinking water
Without enough freshwater flow, seawater is making its way up the Mississippi River and is expected to reach New Orleans by mid-October.
Water conservation measures announced for Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park announced Tuesday that it is reimplementing mandatory water conservation measures again for the South Rim due to diminished supplies.
Rio Verde water crisis: Gov. Hobbs signs bill ending Arizona town's battle for water
The start of 2023 brought new concerns for some residents in the Rio Verde Foothills area, as Scottsdale shut off their water supply due to the ongoing drought. Here's what you should know about what happened, and what people are trying to do to secure a water supply for the future.
Colorado River cuts: Western states will not lose as much water in 2024
The U.S. government in 2021 announced cuts that hit Arizona particularly hard. Last year, those cuts grew more severe thanks to continued drought, poor precipitation and less runoff from the river’s Rocky Mountains source.
Despite end to Rio Verde water battle, one donkey sanctuary is struggling: 'It's just the worst'
Gov. Katie Hobbs signed off on a bill that would create a new standpipe water district in the area and facilitate the water sale from Scottsdale to Rio Verde. But one nonprofit isn't seeing immediate relief.
Arizona saguaros are collapsing in this extreme heat, and experts are worried
The cacti usually live about 150 years, and inside their skin, they can reach up to 140 degrees inside. Still, the prolonged dryness and intense heat could be a problem.
Arizona cities offering money incentives to residents in bid to reduce water use: Here's what to know
As Arizona continues to deal with a megadrought, some cities are offering incentives for people to use less water, as part of an effort to conserve water. Here's what you should know about the incentives.
Gilbert residents can receive up to $800 to get rid of their grass
Under a new rebate program, Gilbert residents can receive up to $800 for removing their grass and replacing it with low-water-use landscaping.
Supreme Court rules against Navajo Nation in Colorado River water rights case
States that draw water from the river — Arizona, Nevada and Colorado — and water districts in California that are also involved in the case had urged the court to decide for them, which the justices did in a 5-4 ruling.
Process begins to reshape Colorado River water use guidelines by 2027
The department's U.S. Bureau of Reclamation promised a “robust and transparent public process" beginning with online virtual public meetings July 17, July 18 and July 24.