Improved drought conditions ease Colorado River water reductions

Despite the reduction, Commissioner Touton stressed the importance of considering the long-term impacts of climate change and its effects on water management.
EDITED BY LUKE REYNOLDS
colorado-river-cutbacks

The Bureau of Reclamation, Washington, D.C., is lowering water reductions for the Colorado River Basin States thanks to improved drought conditions for Lake Mead. 

Because of “improved hydrology, ongoing conservation efforts,” the reservoir’s status has shifted from level 2 to level 1 shortage condition, according to information provided by Reclamation 

“The above-average precipitation this year was a welcome relief and, coupled with our hard work for system conservation, we have the time to focus on the long-term sustainability solutions needed in the Colorado River Basin,” says Camille Calimlim Touton, Bureau of Reclamation commissioner. “However, Lake Powell and Lake Mead – the two largest reservoirs in the United States and the two largest storage units in the Colorado River system – remain at historically low levels. As we experience a warmer, drier West due to a prolonged drought accelerated by climate change, Reclamation is committed to leading inclusive and transparent efforts to develop the next-generation framework for managing the river system.” 

As near- and long-term plans for the Colorado River basin states are developed, Reclamation will implement guidelines developed over the past two decades for the reservoirs. As a part of those plans, Lake Powell will operate in the Mid-Elevation Release Tier, and Lake Mead will operate in a Level 1 Shortage Condition through 2024.  

Share on social media:

it-icon

RELATED NEWS

USDA HQ
The Senate voted 72-28 Feb. 13 to confirm Brooke L. Rollins as the new Secretary of Agriculture.
AdobeStock_479026353
The bipartisan bill aims to provide greater flexibility for individuals pursuing careers that require professional certifications.
Trump tariffs
The White House has announced a new round of tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, originally set to take effect February 4.