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

Photos and videos: Dolores River, September 2020

This page features drone-captured images and videos of the Dolores River in southwest Colorado. The Dolores River begins in the San Juan Mountains and travels about 230 miles to meet...

A centuries-old system determines who gets water first and last

In response to the ongoing drought, Colorado has offered to pay ranchers to leave their water right in the river when levels sink to critically low levels.

Climate Change is making flooding worse: 3 reasons the world is seeing more record-breaking...

Climate change and warming temperatures are exacerbating heavy rainfall and flooding events.

Colorado Reservoirs at 85% of average capacity, with little recovery expected summer rains may...

Drought and decreased snowpack have left Colorado reservoirs below average capacity levels.

State officials looking for engagement on updated water plan

State officials are hoping dire climate predictions and water shortages will convince Coloradans to get involved in planning how to share a dwindling resource.
Glen Canyon Dam photo

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.

Photos: Colorado River Indian Tribes Reservation

This page features aerial and ground-based photos of the Colorado River Indian Tribes Reservation near Parker, Arizona. Created by the federal government in 1865, the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT)...
PFAS, often used in water-resistant gear, also find their way into drinking water and human bodies. CasarsaGuru via Getty Images

What are PFAS, and why is the EPA warning about them in drinking water?...

A dangerous chemical, known as PFAS, is found in everything from nonstick cookware to carpets to ski wax.

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. 
Crystal River rancher Bill Fales stands at the headgate for the Helms Ditch photo

Crystal River rancher, Water Trust again try to boost flows

A Crystal River Valley rancher and a nonprofit organization are teaming up for the second time to leave more water in a parched stream.