It’s no secret that water is a basic necessity of life—but that necessity is becoming increasingly scarce. Water shortages in the United States are a growing concern for many people, from everyday consumers to government officials. Some factors contributing to the nation’s water scarcity issues are climate change, outdated infrastructure, and population growth. These contributing factors will likely continue to pose a problem in upcoming years, making it imperative to implement water shortage solutions that will lead to a sustainable future in the U.S.

States That Need Water Shortage Solutions Now

While the U.S. is experiencing a water shortage, certain states and cities are faring worse than others. The water crisis is particularly prevalent in the nation’s southwestern region. This makes water shortage solutions an immediate need for the communities and industries within the affected regions. Some of the states and cities in the southwestern U.S. affected the most by a water shortage are below.

1. California

The water shortage in California is a multifaceted and complex issue, with human and natural factors contributing to it. The state has been plagued by prolonged droughts exacerbated by climate change. Population growth and the agricultural industry’s demand for substantial water resources also compound California’s water crisis.

Together, the contributing factors have significantly decreased California’s water reserves. For example, the Sierra Nevada snow pack is an essential water source for California as it provides one-third of the state’s water supply. However, it’s diminished so much that in 2022, it fell to its lowest level in seven years and could mostly disappear in 25 years based on climatic patterns. Although some parts of California have recovered from the latest water crisis, the cycles of floods and droughts have seemed to become a common occurrence in this US state.

2. Arizona

The main factors contributing to water scarcity in Arizona are the following: climate change, unsustainable water management practices, and a growing population. These elements are why the Colorado River, a critical water source for Arizona, is diminishing. Historic droughts worsened by climate change, as well as overuse of water resources, have forced the Colorado River to start drying up, threatening the state’s water security.

Additionally, rapid urbanization and growth in cities like Phoenix have increased water demand among residents, industries, and the agriculture sector, leading Arizona’s governor to announce plans to limit new construction in the area. The agriculture sector, in particular, uses a significant amount of Arizona’s water resources— those in the industry take 72% of the state’s freshwater, exasperating Arizona’s water challenges. Using water reuse strategies and solutions can definitely alleviate these issues and reduce the usage of fresh water in agricultural applications in the state.

3.Texas

Various factors are straining Texas’ water resources, causing the state to grapple with a significant water crisis. A top contributing factor is droughts, one of which continues to linger and affect over 80% of Texas.

Another major factor is changing climatic patterns, which is increasing the severity of droughts in Texas and resulting in unpredictable weather patterns that are worsening the water shortage. Population growth is also an issue that is intensifying the problem. With more people moving to the state, the demand for water to serve residents, agricultural and industrial needs is growing.

4. Nevada (Las Vegas)

Las Vegas is located in the Mojave Desert, one of the driest regions in the U.S., so issues with water availability are not too surprising. However, the water shortage in Las Vegas is worsening, which is not great for a city already located in an arid desert environment. One of the main reasons for the state’s diminishing water supply is population growth, which is leading to increased water demand.

Currently, the state relies heavily on Lake Mead, a critical freshwater reservoir on the Colorado River that provides water to millions of people. Unfortunately, the lake’s water levels have decreased significantly over the years due to elevated water demand and droughts. According to NASA, as of July 18, 2022, “Lake Mead was filled to just 27 percent of capacity.” As climate change continues, the state’s over reliance on the water source will be constantly under threat.

5. Utah

Natural and human activities are driving the water shortage in Utah, which is located in a semi-arid to arid climate that is also susceptible to water availability issues. Changing climatic patterns, however, is also one of the leading factors worsening the water shortage in this state, causing unpredictable rainfall, increased evaporation rates, and higher temperatures. All of these issues, lead to lower water supply levels and droughts. According to research published by the U.S. Drought Monitor Map, 68.56% of Utah was experiencing an “exceptional” drought in January 2021. But as of July 2022, 83.03% of the state was facing an “extreme” or “exceptional” drought.

Population growth is also contributing to the water crisis, resulting in increased water demand. Similar to other western US states, Utah relies on the Colorado River for much of its water supplies. However, the decline in the river’s water levels over the past decades is straining the state’s water resources. It’s unlikely the situation will turn around if current weather patterns persist and overuse continues.

Sustainable Water Shortage Solutions

There are various ways to mitigate the water shortage in the U.S., specifically in the states and cities mentioned in this article. The top water shortage solutions center around wastewater, which can be used to recharge surface water and groundwater supplies as well as enhance irrigation. However, wastewater is only a viable resource for water shortage solutions when it is treated and reused effectively.

At Genesis Water Technologies, we provide innovative and sustainable wastewater treatment solutions like our:

* Zeoturb Bio-organic Liquid Flocculant                                                                                        * NatZeo Filtration Media                                                                                                              * Genclean-Muni                                                                                                                              * * * Tertiary Wastewater Reverse Osmosis Desalination system solutions.

Each of these solutions helps enhance the quality of wastewater so that it can be used for groundwater and surface water recharge, irrigation and industrial water reuse. We also partner with organizations willing to fund these water shortage solutions for communities and industries that qualify for assistance.

A Call to Action for Sustainable Wastewater Reuse Solutions

The looming water shortages in the United States demand urgent attention and effective solutions. California, Arizona, Texas, Las Vegas, and Utah are particularly grappling with escalating water crises, driven by climate change, population growth, and outdated infrastructure.

At Genesis Water Technologies, we stand at the forefront of addressing these challenges with advanced wastewater treatment solutions. Treating and reusing wastewater efficiently, we contribute to replenishing surface water, recharging groundwater, and supporting sustainable industry and agriculture.

Now is the time for decisive action. If you are a community or industry facing water scarcity, partner with us to implement eco-friendly, innovative water reuse solutions. Contact Genesis Water Technologies today to pave the way for a resilient, water-secure future. Together, let’s combat water shortages and build a sustainable tomorrow.

Email us at customersupport@genesiswatertech.com or call us at +1-877 267-3699 to explore how our wastewater treatment solutions can make a difference.