New bill highlights conflict between development, water supply in San Pedro

"In the future, it may be easier for similar developments to be built in rural areas.

New legislation proposed by Arizona State Sen. Gail Griffin (R-Hereford) could loosen water requirements for new developments in rural counties.  

But as new projects seek to break ground, environmentalists worry how the added population will affect the demand for the San Pedro River’s water in the future.

Biologically, the river is an irreplaceable riparian stronghold for the area with its finite water supply, according to Nicole Gillett, conservation advocate with the Tucson Audubon Society.

With more demand for water, what will happen to the river?" . . .