The Trump administration has unveiled four new options to tackle the Colorado River’s worsening water shortages. These options could lead to significant water reductions for Southern California.
Shivaji Deshmukh, general manager of the Metropolitan Water District, labels some of these alternatives “alarming.” He emphasized that any cuts would likely spur lengthy legal battles. He noted, “Our Colorado River supply cannot be randomly slashed.”
Right now, officials from seven Western states are stuck in negotiations over how to solve this crisis. A recent report from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation details potential cutbacks after 2026, when current rules end. Critics like Kyle Roerink from the Great Basin Water Network argue that the proposals unfairly burden California, Arizona, and Nevada, while allowing upper basin states to escape more drastic measures.
Inaction isn’t an option, according to Andrea Travnicek, assistant Interior secretary for water and science. She stresses the need for a swift, agreed-upon plan. Over the past two years, representatives from California and six other states have been working together to find a solution.
Scott Cameron, acting commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, has urged these states to finalize their agreement soon. He said the agency hasn’t picked a specific option yet, insisting that consensus is vital. The alternatives range from “basic coordination” to more complex approaches like “maximum operational flexibility.”
The Colorado River serves millions, from Denver to San Diego, and is vital for Native tribes and agricultural communities. After years of overuse and a lack of rain, its flow has dropped by about 20% in the last 25 years. This decrease has been exacerbated by climate change, making dry years more common and severe.
Currently, Lake Mead is at just 33% capacity, and Lake Powell is even lower at 27%. JB Hamby, California’s chief negotiator, emphasizes that all states need to shoulder the water cuts to prevent critical reservoir levels from plunging. “The river will not wait,” he said.
The talks face challenges, particularly over how to distribute mandatory cuts. The lower basin states — California, Arizona, and Nevada — are clashing with the upper basin states — Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and New Mexico. Colorado’s negotiator, Becky Mitchell, highlights her state’s commitment to finding a collaborative solution.
The potential for lawsuits looms large, but no one wants to go down that path. Public comments on the Bureau of Reclamation’s draft environmental document are open until March 2, with a final decision expected by October 1.
Many experts stress that the existing rules established in 2007 have failed to sufficiently protect water supplies. The Bureau’s report outlines the risk of “large and unprecedented” mandatory cuts, noting that the Colorado Basin is entering a period of increased aridity. It doesn’t directly mention climate change, yet many agree that rising temperatures lead to more evaporation and reduced water flows.
Sinjin Eberle from American Rivers points out that the last 25 years have been significantly drier than in centuries. And this winter has seen warm temperatures and below-average snowpack levels. He warns that a healthy river system is crucial to support industries, agriculture, and local communities.
Ultimately, effective collaboration among the states and federal government is necessary for a sustainable solution. As Eberle puts it, “Without a healthy river, everyone suffers.”
For more insights on the Colorado River situation, you can check the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s draft environmental document.
