Economic Feasibility of the Willcox AMA Management Goal

The Arizona Department of Water Resources has awarded contract CTR079478 to WestWater Research LLC for an economic feasibility study of the Willcox Active Management Area (AMA) Management Goal. The contract, effective November 24, 2025, through November 24, 2026, focuses on analyzing groundwater use reduction strategies and economic implications for the region. Key deliverables include developing baseline conditions for agricultural production, modeling groundwater reduction alternatives, analyzing a potential water allocation trading program, and conducting comparative scenario assessments from current conditions through 2075.

The project's scope encompasses comprehensive water resource economic support services, with specific tasks including project meetings, baseline condition analysis, and optional regional economic impact assessment. WestWater Research will utilize staff at varying expertise levels, with hourly rates ranging from $125 to $420 depending on staff role. The contract includes provisions for potential IMPLAN data analysis at an additional $10,000, and allows for expert witness services at $500 per hour. The study aims to support the Willcox AMA's management objectives, including mitigating land subsidence and reducing groundwater overdraft by at least 50% by 2075.