Water is a lifeline in the arid landscapes of Arizona’s Upper Santa Cruz Basin. Arizona’s Central Arizona Project (CAP) was designed to transport water from the Colorado River to the central and southern parts of the state, addressing regional water shortages. The pipeline stops just south of Tucson, leaving the last 60 miles of the state – between Tucson and the southern border – without direct access to CAP water. Recognizing the long-term need to address declining aquifer levels, Hudbay is working with the Community Water Company of Green Valley (CWC) in a joint venture to implement Project Renews, which will extend the CAP water pipeline and replenish local water resources.
Hudbay has committed to fully funding Project Renews, an extension of the pipeline to a recharge facility, where water can be used to replenish the aquifer. This will be accomplished by constructing a 36-inch diameter pipeline, delivering water from the Colorado River to the Green Valley and Sahuarita communities. By directing this water back into the aquifer, Project Renews ensures long-term water security for the region’s residents and ecosystems. This initiative benefits local communities, agricultural users and surrounding areas by ensuring a more reliable water supply. This partnership marks the first instance of an industrial entity proactively addressing its potential impact on local water resources during the development phase of its project.
Beyond securing a sustainable water future, Project Renews has been shaped by community input and engagement, particularly in discussions about how the 72-acre recharge facility’s surrounding parkland will be used. Local residents and environmental groups have contributed ideas for incorporating green spaces, walking trails and educational areas that promote public awareness of water conservation efforts. This ensures that the project is not only a technical achievement but also a community asset, enhancing public spaces and providing recreational benefits.
Project Renews has been steadily progressing over the past 10 years and is currently about 20% complete. Hudbay has proactively taken steps to mitigate the potential impact of its operations on local water resources. We are committed to accelerating the project as production nears to ensure it is completed before drawing any water from its wells.
Project Renews stands as a model for forward-thinking water conservation. By combining scientific expertise, industrial partnership and community-driven decision-making, the initiative paves the way for a resilient and water-secure future in Green Valley and Sahuarita. Through collaboration and responsible stewardship, Project Renews will leave a lasting impact, ensuring that generations to come can thrive in harmony with Arizona’s unique desert environment.