Grand Canyon Faces Severe Water Crisis
Extreme drought is forcing federal officials to propose new rules governing the Colorado River's flow through the canyon.
Managing Two Massive Dams
The new rules determine water flow between the Glen Canyon Dam upstream and the Hoover Dam downstream.
Seven States Rely on the River
The Bureau of Reclamation manages these water resources. Seven states depend on this river and must reduce their water use.
Missed Deadlines and Expired Deals
A previous water management agreement expired in 2025. With states unable to agree, the federal government stepped in.
Water Demand Outpaces Supply
Water use is currently outpacing the available supply, causing both Lake Powell and Lake Mead to drop to critically low levels.
Option One: Revert to Old Rules
If no new agreement is reached, the No Action Alternative reverts to outdated criteria from the 1970s and 2000s.
Option Two: Basic Coordination
This likely plan sets lower water limits for lower-basin states based on Lake Mead’s current water elevation.
Options Three and Four: Flexibility
These proposals would reduce water released from Lake Powell, requiring higher reductions from lower-basin states.
Option Five: Supply-Driven Alternative
This relies on the river’s annual average flow to dictate usage, though it may not account for future human diversions.
Protecting the Canyon Ecosystem
Beyond state promises, the Grand Canyon’s unique ecosystem, recreation, and indigenous cultural resources must be preserved.
Final Rules Expected Soon
A proposed rule is set to be finalized by September 2026, reshaping the Grand Canyon's landscape for generations.