The Indicator from Planet Money The water mystery unfolding in the western U.S.
36 snips
Jan 6, 2025 In rural Arizona, despite having massive groundwater reserves, wells are mysteriously running dry. A lawsuit highlights the environmental fallout from excessive groundwater extraction linked to a company tied to the Saudi royal family. The tensions between local agriculture and foreign investment spark a debate over water rights. As local communities clash with corporate interests, outdated water laws exacerbate the crisis. Calls for legislative reform grow louder as stakeholders grapple with the implications of resource exploitation.
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Foreign Companies Buying Land for Water
- La Paz County supervisor Holly Irwin learned about foreign companies buying land for water.
- A reporter broke the story about foreign entities purchasing land for water resources.
Saudi Arabian Alfalfa Farm in Arizona
- Fondamonte, tied to the Saudi royal family, grows alfalfa in Arizona and ships it back to Saudi Arabia.
- This is because Saudi Arabia depleted its own water resources.
Local Well Issues
- Residents near Fondamonte's farms are experiencing well issues due to excessive water pumping.
- A local church has been without water for years.