Description:
The Verde River Valley is situated in the central part
of Arizona, primarily in the transition zone between the
Colorado Plateau and the Basin and Range physiographic provinces.
The entire river valley, from north of Cottonwood
to east of Phoenix, was investigated to ascertain whether
a suitable reservoir exists that would be capable of supplying
50,000 to 150,000 acre feet of groundwater per year for
30 years. The reservoir and geothermal energy would be coupled
in a desalination project to augment Arizona's water
supply.
A study of the ground-water reservoirs in the Verde River
Valley for desalination and water supply augmentation indicate
that the operation would at best be marginal. In addition,
there is a potential for conflict with environmental groups.
The Paradise Valley Basin has sufficient water in storage
for the development of an economic desalination operation.
However, the area is very well developed with cities, towns
and residences. Subsidence might occur, as a result of
ground water withdrawal and could pose a significant problem.
In addition, the vast majority of the land is under state
trust and fee ownership, making development by the federal
government difficult.
Twenty-one pages.