Colorado River Crisis
Policy Shifts Reshaping the American West
A River Over-Allocated by Law
This 4–5 million acre-foot gap drives perpetual conflict among 7 states and Mexico.
The 2026 Interim Guidelines
The 2007 interim guidelines — set to expire in 2026 — triggered mandatory cuts when Lake Mead fell below 1,075 feet.
Agriculture Takes the Biggest Hit
Agricultural users — who consume 80% of Colorado River water — face the steepest cuts. Arizona farmers lost 21% of their allocation in 2022.
Cities vs. Farms: The Priority War
Under "prior appropriation" water law, older water rights get water first.
Desalination: Mexico's Role
The U.S.
The Path Forward: 2026 and Beyond
The question now is who bears the cost of a drier future.
Take Action
• Reduce water use at home — every drop counts • Support organizations protecting Western water rights • Follow Colorado River policy updates • Read more at sustainabilityawakening.com
Reservoirs at Historic Lows
Decades of drought have pushed major US reservoirs to critically low levels, reshaping water rights and policy across the West.
Bureau of Reclamation Acts
Historic Tier 2 water cuts slash Arizona allocations by 21%, forcing farmers to fallow millions of acres and cities to accelerate conservation.
Farms Bear the Brunt
Farming consumes 70–80% of Colorado River water. As cuts deepen, growers idle land, switch crops, and sell water rights at record prices.