Yuma City Council takes action on two Colorado River water issues

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The Yuma City Council unanimously voted Wednesday to take action on two Colorado River water issues that could have implications for the region’s water supply.

One of the actions involves legal proceedings related to a proposed Colorado River water transfer from GSC Farm in La Paz County to the Town of Queen Creek.

Yuma is joining Mohave and La Paz counties in legal action concerning the transfer. City officials say they are concerned the transfer could set a precedent for how Colorado River water is moved from rural areas to growing communities elsewhere in Arizona.

The council also authorized potential legal action against the U.S. Department of the Interior over its August decision concerning the Colorado River’s operating guidelines.

The proposed changes include potential water-use restrictions for Lower Basin states.

Mayor Doug Nicholls said protecting Yuma’s access to Colorado River water is critical to the community’s future.

“We need to make sure that we’re fighting for the rights of Yuma because that is our future," Nicholls said. "Without water, we don’t get to grow. Without water, we don’t even get to sustain. And so we need to be at the table, and we need to make sure that we give the best fight.”

Local resident David Renaudin said potential water cuts could affect both families and Yuma’s agricultural industry.

“A lot of families would really suffer, you know," Renaudin said. "Escaping the heat coming down here. Definitely the agriculture, with Yuma being such a big agricultural center. In my opinion it would hurt Yuma very badly.”

The City’s legal actions come as Colorado River states continue to navigate the river’s long-term water supply and operating rules.