Thriving Through Drought: Homesteading Resilience in the Arid Southwest

The desert Southwest, a land of stark beauty and resilient life, is facing an unprecedented challenge. Arizona and New Mexico are in the grip of a prolonged drought, exacerbating water scarcity issues that threaten the livelihoods of homesteaders and small farmers. The Colorado River Basin, the lifeblood of the region, is dwindling, with recent reports highlighting alarmingly low water levels in Lake Mead and Lake Powell. For those who have chosen to cultivate a self-sufficient life in this arid environment, the stakes are higher than ever. But despite the challenges, a spirit of innovation and community is flourishing, proving that it is possible to not just survive, but thrive, in the face of drought.

The Santa Cruz River Farmers Cooperative: A Model for Resilience

In the heart of southern Arizona, the Santa Cruz River Farmers Cooperative stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of collective action. This cooperative, rooted in the rich agricultural history of the Santa Cruz River Valley, is dedicated to preserving water rights and promoting sustainable agriculture. For generations, farmers in this region have understood the preciousness of water and have developed ingenious methods for its conservation. The cooperative builds upon this legacy, bringing together farmers to share knowledge, resources, and advocate for policies that support a sustainable future.

The Santa Cruz River Farmers Cooperative, established to protect local water access and provide training to support farmers to produce food using the most efficient practices, understands its success depends on the success of the entire community. Their water conservation projects are diverse and impactful. They promote traditional irrigation methods, such as acequias (community-operated irrigation ditches), which have been used for centuries to efficiently distribute water across fields. They also actively participate in water banking, storing excess water during wet periods for use during dry spells. This proactive approach ensures a more reliable water supply for all members. One cooperative member was quoted saying, "We have faced tough times before, but together, we find ways to continue farming sustainably."

DIY Water Conservation Techniques for the Arid Homestead

Facing drought conditions head-on requires practical, hands-on solutions. Here are some low-cost water conservation techniques that can be implemented on your homestead in the arid Southwest:

Rainwater Harvesting: Capturing the Sky's Gift

Rainwater harvesting is a simple and effective way to supplement your water supply. Even in arid regions, capturing rainfall can make a significant difference. Here's how to build a basic system:

• Materials:

  • A large container, such as a 275-gallon IBC tote (can be purchased for around $100-$200).
  • PVC pipes and fittings to connect your gutters to the tote.
  • A screen or filter to prevent debris from entering the tank.
  • A spigot for easy access to the collected water.

• Construction:

  1. Position the IBC tote under your gutter downspout.
  2. Connect the downspout to the tote using PVC pipes and fittings.
  3. Install a screen or filter at the entry point to remove leaves and other debris.
  4. Ensure the tote has an overflow outlet to prevent overfilling.
  5. Install a spigot near the bottom of the tote for easy water access.

• Permitting:

  • In Arizona, rainwater harvesting is generally encouraged and often exempt from permitting requirements. However, it's always best to check with your local municipality for specific regulations.
  • In New Mexico, rainwater harvesting is also widely supported. No state permits are typically required for residential systems.

  Remember, collected rainwater is not potable unless properly filtered and treated. Use it for irrigation, cleaning, or other non-potable purposes.

Greywater System Construction: Reusing Household Water

Greywater, the wastewater from showers, sinks, and washing machines, can be a valuable resource for irrigation. A simple laundry-to-landscape system is relatively easy to set up:

• Materials:

  • PVC pipes and fittings.
  • A three-way valve to direct greywater to the landscape or the sewer.
  • Mulch basin or other distribution system for the plants.

• Construction:

  1. Install a three-way valve on your washing machine's drain hose to divert greywater.
  2. Run a PVC pipe from the valve to your garden.
  3. Create a mulch basin around the plants you want to irrigate.
  4. Ensure the greywater is distributed evenly throughout the basin.

• Safety Precautions:

  • Use biodegradable, phosphate-free soaps and detergents.
  • Never use greywater on edible plants that come into direct contact with the soil (e.g., lettuce, strawberries).
  • Avoid irrigating with greywater during wet periods.
  • Do not store greywater for more than 24 hours.

• Legal Considerations:

  • Both Arizona and New Mexico have regulations regarding greywater use. Check with your local authorities to ensure your system complies with all requirements.

Xeriscaping: Landscaping for Water Conservation

Xeriscaping is a landscaping technique that utilizes drought-tolerant plants to minimize water usage. By choosing native and adapted species, you can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape that thrives with minimal irrigation.

• Drought-Tolerant Plant Suggestions:
  • Arizona: Calliandra californica (Baja Fairy Duster), Parkinsonia microphylla (Foothills Palo Verde), Agave parryi (Parry's Agave), Larrea tridentata (Creosote Bush), Dasylirion wheeleri (Sotol).
  • New Mexico: Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage), Eriogonum jamesii (James' Buckwheat), Yucca baccata (Banana Yucca), Opuntia polyacantha (Plains Pricklypear), Four Corners Penstemon
• Planting Techniques:
  • Choose plants that are well-suited to your soil type and sun exposure.
  • Amend the soil with compost to improve drainage and water retention.
  • Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
  • Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
• Watering Schedules:
  • Newly planted xeriscape plants will need regular watering until they are established.
  • Once established, most xeriscape plants can survive on natural rainfall alone.
  • Supplemental watering may be necessary during prolonged dry periods.

Take Action: Become a Water Conservation Champion

The future of homesteading in the arid Southwest depends on our ability to adapt and conserve water. Take the first step today by implementing one of the water conservation techniques described above. Build a simple rainwater harvesting system, install a greywater system, or transform your landscape into a xeriscaping oasis.

For more information and guidance, reach out to the Watershed Management Group in Tucson, Arizona. They offer workshops, consultations, and resources to help you become a water conservation expert. Visit their website at https://watershedmg.org/ or call them at (520) 398-2299.

Conclusion: A Future of Resilience and Collaboration

The drought in the arid Southwest presents significant challenges, but it also offers an opportunity to innovate and build a more resilient future. By embracing water conservation techniques, supporting community initiatives like the Santa Cruz River Farmers Cooperative, and working together, we can ensure that homesteading continues to thrive in this beautiful and challenging landscape. Let us learn from the wisdom of the past, embrace the ingenuity of the present, and create a future where water is valued, conserved, and shared by all. The spirit of the desert is one of resilience, and with collaboration and determination, we can overcome these challenges and create a sustainable future for generations to come.