Figure It Out…Or Else: Feds to Colorado River States

·31 min·3 clips

The federal government gives seven states until Valentine's Day to agree on drastic water cuts, or it will step in and decide for them.

The episode begins by outlining the Colorado River crisis, noting an unusually warm and dry winter has worsened conditions for the seven states and 40 million people reliant on its water. Host Arianna Brocious introduces Sarah Porter from Arizona State University's Kyle Center for Water Policy. Porter describes the river's importance for agriculture, industry, cities like Los Angeles and Denver, and Native American tribes. She explains the 1922 Colorado Compact that divides water between upper and lower basin states, with current guidelines expiring in September. The impasse stems from upper basin states refusing to take more cuts, arguing they have no obligation under the compact, while lower basin states demand they do. Porter discusses past agreements like the 2007 guidelines and 2019 Drought Contingency Plan, but notes the current situation is more difficult. The federal deadline of February 14 looms, with the Bureau of Reclamation prepared to issue an environmental impact statement and potentially manage the river if no agreement is reached. Porter suggests litigation in the U.S. Supreme Court might be necessary to clarify issues and force a settlement. She details technical aspects like the priority system, where junior users take cuts first, and possibilities for senior users to reallocate water temporarily. Adaptation strategies include cities using advanced wastewater treatment to reduce reliance, with Phoenix potentially cutting Colorado River use by 50%. Agriculture, which uses three-fourths of the water, may need efficiency improvements or voluntary retirement of water rights, requiring federal funding. Porter mentions a January 30 meeting of governors, highlighting the gravity of the situation, and reflects on historical overselling of the river's capacity. The episode concludes with rumors of a short-term deal to buy time.

As heard by us

A clear look at how Colorado River uncertainty reaches budgets, crops, tribal revenue, and federal intervention.

The Colorado River crisis comes through as a planning problem as much as a water-policy fight. Seven states and 40 million people are facing dwindling flows, reservoirs at historic lows, and a February 14 deadline after which the Bureau of Reclamation could divide water among…

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Why you'd press play

You will hear how Colorado River uncertainty can freeze plans that cities, farmers, and tribes need to make far into the future.

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