Bureau of Reclamation Proposes Paths for Colorado River Negotiations Amid Drought Crisis
The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation unveiled five potential alternatives for updating Colorado River operational guidelines as negotiations between states face pressing challenges due to a historic drought. With a deadline looming in 2026, the future of water supply, particularly for Southern Nevada, hangs in the balance. Reclamation Commissioner Camille Calimlim Touton emphasized the importance of collaboration among Colorado River Basin stakeholders, stating, "Today, we show our collective work," while announcing these critical alternatives.
The underlying tension in negotiations stems from differing views between the Upper Basin states—Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, and Wyoming—and the Lower Basin states, which include Nevada, California, and Arizona. A key point of contention is whether the Upper Basin should absorb additional water cuts beyond the established "structural deficit" of 1.5 million acre-feet, attributed to evaporation and transport. Upper Basin representatives argue they are already heavily impacted by reliance on natural snowpack.
One alternative highlights proposals from Native American tribes, advocating for the consideration of undeveloped tribal water rights. Additionally, the "Basin Hybrid" option aims to reconcile the interests of both Upper and Lower Basin states.
Upper Basin Commissioner Becky Mitchell affirmed her state’s commitment to its proposed alternative, which she believes aligns best with the needs outlined by Reclamation’s modeling. Meanwhile, the Lower Basin states have yet to publicly respond to the Bureau’s announcement.
Negotiators plan to meet in Las Vegas this December at the Colorado River Water Users Association conference to further discuss the path forward as the pressure intensifies under the looming effects of climate change. This story remains under development, and updates will follow.
For inquiries, contact Alan Halaly at ahalaly@reviewjournal.com or on X @AlanHalaly.
Source
Photo credit www.reviewjournal.com
