2024 Arizona Water Innovation Initiative year in review: Highlighting our impact
The Arizona Water Innovation Initiative (AWII), a forward-thinking collaboration spearheaded by Arizona State University’s Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory in partnership with the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, launched in April 2023.
As we close out the second year of this ambitious, multi-year initiative—supported by a $40 million state investment and a $5 million gift from the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust—AWII is making significant strides in enhancing Arizona’s water resilience.
Our new 2024 year in review reflects how innovation and collaboration are central to this ongoing success, from groundbreaking technological developments and applied research to strategic partnerships and community engagement.
Through its five strategic priorities and cross-cutting programs, AWII is actively shaping Arizona’s water future. One resounding takeaway is clear: innovation comes in many forms, ranging from community partnerships to cross-disciplinary research.
For example, a pressing challenge in Arizona is protecting rural groundwater and the communities that depend on it. By bringing together experts across multiple program areas, we’re developing solutions that address groundwater protection from all angles.
One prime example is Impact Water – Arizona. This collaborative effort partners ASU researchers and local communities to co-develop community-driven groundwater solutions via workshops in rural areas.
These workshops create a space for direct, locally-informed innovation, where community members can explore solutions to groundwater challenges, empowering them to take control of their water future. This model of community-engagement innovation is not only addressing immediate issues but also establishing a framework for water engagement that could be replicated statewide.
"Addressing Arizona’s water challenges is a top priority for Governor Katie Hobbs. We recognize the importance of water security for Arizona’s economic future and are well positioned to tackle critical water issues. We have made immense progress on issues including the Colorado River, and there are many innovative solutions on the horizon for rural groundwater, water quality and more. The Arizona Water Innovation Initiative is a key partner in securing a thriving future for the state.”
Patrick Adams, Senior Advisor for Water Policy to Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs
In addition, researchers at the Advanced Water Observatory and Decision Support System are collaborating on a statewide groundwater assessment. This data-driven project will provide residents and policymakers with vital insights into groundwater availability, enabling them to make informed, innovative decisions about water use and conservation.
At the Global Center for Water Technology, groundbreaking work is taking place with the Arizona Department of Water Quality to develop technologies that address contaminants like PFAS in groundwater. These innovations are not only solving pressing water quality issues, but they are also fostering a thriving ecosystem for new patents, startups and further technological advancements within Arizona’s water sector.
Innovation isn’t limited to technology—it’s also crucial in water policy. The Kyl Center for Water Policy is at the forefront of pioneering strategies to improve Arizona’s groundwater management. One of the key areas in 2024 was addressing how groundwater recharge should occur in the same locations where water is withdrawn.
Through the Arizona Water for All program, we are ensuring that the state’s most water-insecure communities have access to the innovative tools and knowledge needed to manage their water resources effectively. This program fosters inclusive collaboration, ensuring that all Arizonans benefit from the innovative solutions that AWII is developing.
At AWII, we believe that innovation and collaboration are key to creating a sustainable water future. By working together with universities, research institutions, local communities, and policymakers, we are not just solving today’s water challenges—we are shaping a water-resilient future for Arizona.
To stay up to date with AWII activities and find water information you can trust, visit our website, use our new resources pages, sign up for our mailing list to receive our newsletter and blog post roundup or attend one of our events. We invite you to join in this shared effort to drive a thriving water future through discovery, innovation and action, for the benefit of all of Arizona.