In the ongoing conflict over water resources in Arizona, Attorney General Kris Mayes has called for the state's Department of Water Resources to revoke a drilling permit issued to Saudi-backed alfalfa company, Fondomonte. The call for revocation is a direct response to concerns about the potential depletion of Arizona's water supplies.

The recent permit, as reported by AZPM, allows Fondomonte to drill a new well that could reach depths between 1000 and 1500 feet and pump up to 3000 gallons per minute. Mayes expressed her desire to quickly see an end to such expansions, preferring immediate action rather than waiting for legislative fixes proposed by Governor Katie Hobbs. Mayes stated, "ADWR must immediately revoke the drilling permit and initiate a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding its issuance," as obtained by AZPM.

However, there seems to be some disagreement over terminology. An ADWR spokesperson clarified that Arizona law has very limited regulations on wells outside managed areas and that the term 'permit' might not be accurate, as the department cannot refuse a Notice of Intent to drill if it has been properly filed.

Meanwhile, Governor Hobbs' office has released a statement highlighting that the Governor has already been proactive in handling the situation with Fondomonte. The statement emphasized her actions have resulted in the termination of four Fondomonte land leases, which will prevent millions of gallons of water from being exploited. According to the Governor's statement, "The only elected official who has taken any action to hold Fondomonte accountable is Governor Hobbs, not the Attorney General. That's because the Governor is interested in real action to secure our water future instead of empty grandstanding."

Despite previous actions, a significant lease in the Vicksburg/Ranegras Plain groundwater basin, spanning over 3000 acres, remains unaffected and is set to last through 2031. Arizona's history and challenges with agricultural water use, particularly with foreign entities, continue to be a contentious issue as state officials grapple with sustainability and conservation efforts. Further coverage by AZPM can be found in their podcast 'Tapped', detailing Arizona's agricultural water use and policies.