Payson Water Resources Update
CAAR BUSINESS BREAKFAST | OCTOBER 14, 2026 | CHAPARRAL PINES
The Central Arizona Association of REALTORS® welcomed Town of Payson Water Department Director Tanner Henry as the featured speaker at its October 14 business breakfast at Chaparral Pines. Members gathered for breakfast, networking, and an informative presentation on the water resources and infrastructure serving our community.
A Payson native and registered civil engineer, Henry shared his experience in local infrastructure planning and water management. Before joining the Town in 2013, he worked on engineering projects throughout the area and helped develop the master plan for Payson’s water distribution system.
Tanner Henry addresses CAAR members during the business breakfast at Chaparral Pines.
Henry explained that Payson’s water system draws on several resources, including groundwater wells, surface water from the C.C. Cragin Reservoir, and aquifer recharge. Together, these resources give the Town greater flexibility in managing seasonal conditions and planning for future needs.
The C.C. Cragin Project, which began delivering water to Payson in 2019, added a surface-water source to a system that previously relied on groundwater for its drinking water.
Henry described aquifer storage and recovery, a process that allows the Town to place treated water underground when supplies are available and recover it when needed. Green Valley Park also plays a role in local water management. Beyond providing recreation, the park was developed through a partnership with the wastewater utility now known as Green Valley Water to help recharge the aquifer.
The Water Department’s responsibilities extend beyond securing water supplies. Its 24 employees oversee a system that includes approximately 9,000 service connections and more than 220 miles of water mains.
Henry discussed ongoing water-quality treatment projects, including efforts to address PFAS, often called “forever chemicals.” He also highlighted the recently completed meter replacement program, which enables daily monitoring to help identify potential leaks sooner. A future customer portal is intended to give residents more convenient access to their water-use information.
Henry clarified that the Town of Payson Water Department, Payson Water Company, and Green Valley Water are separate entities. Identifying the appropriate provider is an important first step when helping clients with utility questions. He encouraged members to report suspected water leaks and refer detailed questions about water service and resources directly to the department.
Members connect with one another at the October business breakfast.
CAAR thanks Tanner Henry for sharing his knowledge, Chaparral Pines for hosting, and our members for participating. Programs like this help REALTORS® stay informed about the infrastructure and services that support the communities we serve.
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