World Water Day 2022 – In Tucson and Around the World
March 22 is World Water Day, so designated by the United Nations in 1993. It is observed annually, here in Arizona and throughout the world, by stakeholders who gather to learn about, honor, and celebrate water. This year’s theme, Groundwater, making the invisible visible, focused attention on this hidden yet critical source of freshwater. In Tucson, the WRRC participated in a World Water Day Teach-In hosted by Pima County District 5 and Supervisor Adelita Grijalva. WRRC Director Sharon B. Megdal provided pre-recorded comments to set the stage for the event. WRRC research program officer Susanna Eden gave a presentation on Pima County’s drought-related water challenges and shared recommendations on what individuals and policymakers can do to mitigate drought impacts. Tucson Assistant City Manager Tim Thomure followed with a presentation on the Santa Cruz Heritage Project and its remarkable effects on community well-being, including riparian habitat restoration, groundwater recharge, economic attractiveness, and appreciation of our cultural heritage. Dr. Megdal was unable to attend the Teach-In, as she was celebrating World Water Day in Dubai, UAE, where she delivered a keynote speech on Managed Aquifer Recharge. Part II of Director Megdal’s Reflections on World Water Day will be published next week.