Dialogue on Development - Design with the Desert: Conservation and Sustainable Development - page 348

FIGURE 19.8
Protecting open space is important to preserve scenic views and sensitive lands.
19.3.11 Connecting Water with Growth and Development
The rapid pace of development of the Southwest is creating a need to find new ways to deal
with the finite amount of water available in the region. Unbridled growth will stretch the
water supply and eventually lead to a shortage in times of drought and water uncertainty.
There is a compelling need to develop policies that link new development to an assured
water supply that will ensure the development has the water resources to sustain the pro-
posed uses of this development. Requirements for development vary by state and region
from mandatory to recommended guidelines. Arizona has the most comprehensive regu-
lations for development set forth by the Arizona Groundwater Management Act (AGMA)
of 1980. This law requires all new development projects within the active management
areas to demonstrate a 100-year assured water supply before the development can proceed.
Although not perfect in implementation, other states should seriously consider some form
of policy similar to the AGMA that will put some rational planning and accountability for
development interests to provide an assured and reliable source of water to support future
developments (Figure 19.9).
19.3.12 Sustainable Community Design
A vibrant community does not happen by chance. Communities become vibrant when
people put forth efforts that allow the residents to live well by putting in place measures
that will sustain the community over time. Altogether, effective sustainable community
design includes all of the elements presented in this chapter—a comprehensive vision,
public involvement, a viable economic base, preservation of community assets, sustainable
water supply, transportation choices, and a design that incorporates nature into the fabric
of the community. You can experience the effects of sustainable design in communities
when you see a community responding by having healthy interactions, active lifestyles,
participating in community activities, and contributing to the future of the community on