Arkansas Groundwater and Reservoir Association

The Arkansas Groundwater and Reservoir Association (AGRA) is a 501(c)12 not-for-profit corporation, dedicated to the development, management, and conservation of water resources in the Arkansas River basin. It was formed through the merger of two older well augmentation associations, the Colorado Water Protective and Development Association (CWPDA) and the Arkansas Groundwater Users' Association (AGUA), in 2021. This merger aimed to create a more streamlined and efficient organization capable of better serving its members and securing replacement water.

Purpose and Activities

The primary objective of AGRA is to provide augmentation water to replace out-of-priority depletions from the Arkansas River caused by well pumping. This is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and ensuring sustainable water use in the region. AGRA currently supports over 68,000 irrigated acres and supplies municipal drinking water to more than 10,000 residents in the Lower Arkansas River Valley.

Infrastructure and Operations

AGRA owns and is developing three gravel pit storage reservoirs, operates the Excelsior Ditch, and manages multiple recharge structures. These efforts are designed to effectively replace well depletions and maintain the integrity of the water system within the basin.

Legal Classification and Donations

As a 501(c)12 organization, AGRA is classified under the category of mutually beneficial organizations, such as irrigation companies. Donations to this type of organization are generally not tax-deductible.

Financial Operations

AGRA generates its revenue primarily through program services, with a significant portion also coming from contributions and income from members. The organization's financial structure reflects its operational focus on managing and conserving water resources for its members.