Less federal pressure, worsening drought, and more interstate tension loom over Colorado River talks
The Colorado River Basin is in crisis.
Climate change is reducing its flow and its biggest reservoirs are shrinking. The seven U.S. states that use the river are negotiating cutbacks...
Massive energy storage project eyed for Four Corners region
BECLABITO, N.M. – Standing in a breezy parking lot on Navajo land in the state’s far northwest corner, Tom Taylor looked toward the western horizon and then upwards at...
Solar growth cushions Colorado River hydropower declines
Lakes Mead and Powell, the basin’s two largest reservoirs, are approaching critical levels in which hydropower from their dams (Hoover and Glen Canyon, respectively) would be severely curtailed or altogether cease.
Once a showcase of American optimism and engineering, Hoover Dam faces new power generation...
The long-term drying of the American Southwest poses a gathering and measurable threat to hydropower generation in the Colorado River basin.
Should Lake Mead, the reservoir formed by Hoover Dam,...
Emergency Colorado River rescue plan likely to include more Flaming Gorge releases, payments to...
Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming may face requests for voluntary cutbacks in their use of Colorado River water next year.
Recent drop in Lake Powell’s storage shows how much space sediment is taking up
A new study shows that sedimentation from the Colorado River means that Lake Powell's storage capacity is lower than previously believed.
Blue Mesa is threatened by a two-decade-long drought and downstream obligations
Experts say it will take a lot more than one snowy winter to refill the reservoir.
As Lake Powell dries up, the US turns to creative accounting for a short-term...
A new agreement calls for Western states to leave their drinking water in the reservoir — and act as if they didn't.