What was the Groundwater Management Act in Arizona implemented?

The Groundwater Management Act (GMA) in Arizona was implemented in 1980 to address the critical issues related to groundwater depletion and management in the state. Prior to this legislation, Arizona faced significant challenges with over-extraction of groundwater, especially in rapidly developing areas. The GMA aimed to promote sustainable water use by regulating groundwater withdrawals, particularly in designated Active Management Areas (AMAs), where water resources were most stressed.

The act introduced measures to manage and conserve groundwater resources effectively. It established a framework for the allocation of water rights, encouraged the use of renewable water supplies, and aimed to protect existing groundwater levels. The legislation set out requirements for new developments to demonstrate adequate water supply sustainability, thereby influencing urban planning in the context of long-term water availability. This strategic approach reflects a response to growing concerns about water supply constraints in an arid state and the need for responsible water resource management.