I'll start with a question: Has Arizona Governor Napolitano followed the basic recommendations of her "Drought Task Force?"It's hard to follow every process that Gov. Napolitano may have a hand in, but she does have a long standing commitment to water conservation in Arizona. In her December 1, 2004 message following the task force findings, she stated that "We must do a better job of helping Arizona’s communities manage their water supply and develop strategies that will enable all citizens to reduce consumption." So, from a local viewpoint, why would the Prescott City Council discourage these types of strategies, such as lawn reduction? Maybe part of the Governors policy making needs to include a more stern and direct discussion with community leaders.
In her response she also planned to "create a culture of conservation." That's a broad vision that has certainly evolved in the three years that have passed. Let's hope it is also a natural discourse in our communities and individual psyches as we move further into drought conditions. The Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR ) has been the worthy conduit for many of the Governors water management and education policies.
Finally, there was a mention of creating a "Virtual Water University," which was essentially a co-op between the three state universities. The Arizona Water Institute looks like the result and actually includes participation with three state agencies as well, (Water Resources (ADWR), Environmental Quality (ADEQ), and Commerce (ADoC).
Overall, I'd say Governor Napolitano scores well. With her focus on climate change there will likely be more initiatives regarding our freshwater resources. With a 16% decrease in 2007 of water usage by State government, her message is certainly ongoing.
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