In a bid to safeguard public health and resources, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has taken legal action against Saudi Arabian agribusiness Fondomonte Arizona, LLC. for what she describes as "excessive" groundwater pumping in La Paz County. The lawsuit, as reported by ABC15, alleges that the company's activities have led to significant environmental impact in the region, including water supply depletion, well dry-ups, and ground subsidence.
Known for its alfalfa farm operations, Fondomonte, a subsidiary of the dairy colossus Almarai Co., has been accused of gravely affecting the Ranegras Plain Basin since 2014. The pumping operations have been linked to accelerating aquifer depletion, posing a threat to the local community that relies heavily on this water source. Responding to the allegations, Fondomonte defended its practices, claiming through a statement obtained by ABC15 that they have "invested significantly to bring the latest conservation technology" and comply with all state regulations.
With prolonged drought conditions exacerbating water scarcity across the West, Arizona's reliance on the dwindling Colorado River accentuates the dire need for effective groundwater management. Nevertheless, AP News highlights the absence of groundwater pumping regulations in rural Arizona, making it particularly attractive to international agribusinesses looking to cultivate water-intensive crops for export.
The legal theory of public nuisance forms the basis of Mayes' lawsuit, claiming Fondomonte's operations have obstructed residents' ability to use and enjoy their property. Dispelling doubt over the company's rights to profit at the community's expense, Mayes told reporters, "No company has the right to endanger an entire community’s health and safety for its own gain," as per ABC15. Mayes seeks not only to halt the company's current groundwater usage but also to establish an abatement fund for the damages caused.
La Paz County Supervisor Holly Irwin, joining Mayes in concern, expressed relief that the issue is receiving attention, acknowledging the severity of the water crisis impacting her constituents, during a news briefing via a video conference call, Irwin told AP News.
