It began in 2022 when locals decided we need to bring Sulphur Springs stakeholders together if we’re going to develop groundwater solutions. With the invaluable assistance from the Lincoln Institute, Babbitt Center for Land and Water Policy, and the Arizona Water Innovation Initiative at ASU, this idea gained momentum. Recognizing the importance of a collective approach, we organized a 2-day workshop in 2023, which brought together over 45 local residents and experts. During these intensive sessions, participants collaborated to brainstorm and develop over 50 innovative strategies aimed at water management, economic development, and enhancing community resilience.

The workshop was a melting pot of ideas and perspectives, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among attendees. The participants included agriculturalists, residential domestic water users, business owners, natural resource stewards, and government officials, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling our water challenges. The most crucial strategy we agreed on was the formation of a community stakeholder partnership, which would ensure ongoing collaboration and effective implementation of the proposed solutions.

As a result, the Sulphur Springs Water Alliance (SSWA) was established shortly afterwards. Since its inception, SSWA has been growing steadily, continually expanding its reach and impact. We brought together a group of stakeholders in the community including farmers, ranchers, homeowners, utility companies, local and county government. This partnership has since become a cornerstone of our community’s efforts to safeguard our groundwater resources and promote sustainable development.