Overview
The Bisbee Effluent Recharge Project is being considered by the Cochise County Board of Supervisors. On July 22, 2025, the board approved the purchase of 92 acres of land near the San Pedro River for $300,000. The purpose? To pump 500,000 gallons of treated sewage (effluent) into the river daily—posing potential threats to groundwater, private wells, and public health.
Key Facts
Property Purchase
92 acres approved by the Board for use as a discharge site.
Cost to Public
Estimated $14 million, funded through state and federal grants (i.e., taxpayer money).
Effluent Volume
Up to 500,000 gallons/day to be discharged into the river.
Location Impact
Over 1,000 private wells (families and ranches) lie along the subflow of the San Pedro River.
What Is Effluent?
Effluent is treated wastewater, but it still contains dangerous contaminants:
PFAS (forever chemicals): Linked to cancer, reproductive harm, immune system damage.
Pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, microplastics: Often found in treated sewage.
Long-Term Risk: Once PFAS reaches a water table, remediation is nearly impossible.
Why This Matters
Ecosystem Threat
The San Pedro River is one of the last free-flowing rivers in the Southwest. It supports over 400 species of birds, wildlife, and native flora.
Well Contamination Risk
Over 1,000 households and ranches may face irreversible well contamination.
Public Exclusion
Decisions made with minimal public engagement. Many residents are unaware of the project’s scope or risks.
Taxpayer-Funded
Although presented as a grant-funded project, these are still public dollars.
Project History
- 2018: The Revelator exposed early plans.
- 2024: Pipeline reroute planned closer to Naco, to include more effluent.
- 2025: Land purchase approved; project formally advances under the Cochise County Flood Control District.
Meeting Recordings & Documents
Take Action
Concerned about the future of your water and the San Pedro River?
Contact Your Cochise County Supervisors:
board@cochise.az.gov
Phone
(520) 432-9200
| District | Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Tom Crosby |
| 2 | Kathleen L. Gomez |
| 3 | Frank Antenori |
Join the Movement to Protect the San Pedro Watershed and our Wells!
We must protect our aquifer, our wells, and our wildlife. This project could irreversibly alter the health of the San Pedro River and the people who rely on it.