An initiative of the Center for Environmental Journalism at the University of Colorado Boulder

Boaters at Cedar Springs Marina photo

A “gut punch” as water rushes from Flaming Gorge to save Lake Powell’s hydropower...

The drought hit crisis proportions this summer, pushing lakes Powell and Mead to historic lows and triggering emergency releases.

Colorado River crisis giving tribes new opportunities to right century-old water wrongs

Early involvement in negotiating new Colorado River guidelines will be critical for tribes to determine their future.

Troubled waters

The Trump administration’s new definition of “waters of the United States” dramatically shrinks federal protection of many wetlands and waterways under the Clean Water Act. The rule change cuts red tape for farmers and developers but could threaten ecosystems and drinking water, especially in the arid West.
California wildfire photo

Devastating Colorado fires cap a year of climate disasters in 2021, with one side...

The year 2021 was filled with climate disasters from coast to coast, some so intense they surprised even the scientists who study them.

Water confab: Colorado politicos call for more water storage, smart growth

Politicians and water officials gathered to discuss Colorado's water issues and creating more reservoir storage.

Interstate water wars are heating up along with the climate

Southwest Utah’s claim to Colorado River water is sparking conflict with other western states.
Colorado lawmakers have approved a bill to help regions comply with obligations to deliver water to Kansas, Nebraska, Texas and New Mexico.

Bill providing millions in relief to Republican, Rio Grande river basins clears first hurdle

Colorado lawmakers have approved a bill to help regions comply with obligations to deliver water to Kansas, Nebraska, Texas and New Mexico.

The Colorado River drought crisis: 5 essential reads

Five articles from The Conversation’s archive explain what’s happening and what’s at stake in the Colorado River basin’s drought crisis.

Is renewable energy’s future dammed?

A proposed hydroelectric project on the Little Colorado River shows the tricky trade-offs in transitioning from fossil fuels.

As Colorado River Basin states confront water shortages, it’s time to focus on reducing...

Increasing water supply is no longer a viable option, so states must turn to reducing demand. Conservation remains the low-hanging fruit.