This article summarizes key points from the Cochise County Flood Control District Conference, focusing on the Bisbee Effluent Recharge Project. This initiative is aimed at combating groundwater depletion and managing surface water flow in the region. The urgency surrounding the acquisition of essential properties for the project was a major topic, as delays could jeopardize both sales and broader goals for the area.

The former Environmental Project Coordinator, who retired after 16 years, provided a detailed overview of the project’s status. He noted that a quarter-century of monitoring revealed a worrying decline in water flow, attributed to drought and increased pumping across the border in Mexico. He stressed the need to proceed with acquiring resources that facilitate water drainage and recharge into the river.

He also explained the thorough due diligence undertaken by the county and its collaborators, from environmental assessments to negotiations with Bisbee city officials. While potential landowners were identified a year into discussions, delays pose a threat to potential sales. He argued that this project is vital not only for ecological stability but also for the economic vitality of the county and the well-being of local water users.

Bisbee Mayor Steve Poken emphasized the city’s renewed commitment to the project. He discussed the necessity of securing funding and engineering services for a successful outcome. Poken urged the board to recognize the collaborative nature of the undertaking and to move forward with property purchases.

Nonetheless, not everyone supports the project. Many residents have voiced strong opposition, raising concerns about the possible negative impact on local wells and overall community welfare. This highlights an ongoing conflict between development efforts and the community’s worries regarding water resources.

The meeting concluded with a call for the board to approve the real estate acquisition, which is seen as a crucial step for advancing the Bisbee Effluent Recharge Project. This dialogue underscored the need for swift decision-making in addressing Cochise County’s water resource challenges and the importance of continued collaboration among local governments and stakeholders to secure a sustainable water supply for the future.

Meeting on July 23, 2025, when converted from the Flood Control District Council of 20250722.