Arizona's three state universities - Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and The University of Arizona formed a partnership to position the state as a world leader in water resources management and technology. The primary driver for this initiative was sustaining Arizona's water supply, which is crucial to the state's economy, the health and well-being of its residents, and its natural environment.

The Arizona Water Institute (AWI) combined the expertise of Arizona's water managers with the resources of the three universities to support water resources management and technology development in real-world applications. This unique partnership - which also included three state agencies, Water Resources (ADWR), Environmental Quality (ADEQ), and Commerce (ADoC) - was formed to provide access to hydrologic information, support communities, and develop technologies to promote water sustainability. AWI founding partners also included Intel Corporation and the Salt River Project.

The Arizona Water Institute is now closed due to state and university budget shortfalls. A few projects begun by AWI remain active, including the AHIS and EWSR efforts as listed above. If needed, contact information is still available.