Which entity is responsible for enforcing water rights in Arizona?

In Arizona, the entity responsible for enforcing water rights is the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR). This agency manages the allocation and regulation of water resources to ensure that water rights are honored and disputes are resolved according to the state’s laws and policies.

Water is a critical resource in Arizona, and its management is essential for both agricultural and urban needs. The ADWR oversees various programs related to water conservation, water rights adjudication, and the management of different water basins. Their role includes monitoring water usage, assessing the sustainability of water supplies, and ensuring compliance with legal frameworks governing water rights.

The other entities mentioned have specific functions related to water but do not have the primary role of enforcing water rights. For example, the ADEQ (Arizona Department of Environmental Quality) focuses on protecting environmental quality, AMAs (Active Management Areas) are designated regions where water management regulations are more stringent, and the AWBA (Arizona Water Banking Authority) is involved in water banking and storage. However, the core responsibility of enforcing water rights falls squarely on the ADWR.