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

When the well runs dry

Nobody knows how much water New Mexico has. Finding out is the best way to ensure survival against drought and climate change.

Opinions differ on timeline as Crystal River Wild & Scenic efforts move ahead

Urgency to designate the Crystal River in Colorado as Wild & Scenic varies among the river's advocates.

Colorado River restoration project crawls forward as some environmental groups call for radical change

The Colorado River Water Conservation District voted to give $1 million of their taxpayer-raised funds to help construct a connectivity channel meant to improve deteriorated conditions at the headwaters of the Colorado River.

Despite pandemic, Denver Water’s lead reduction program shows promising early results

One year after it launched one of the largest lead treatment programs in the United States, Denver Water is slightly ahead of schedule.

Photos: Paonia Reservoir, July 2021

This page features drone-captured images of Paonia Reservoir, located in Gunnison County, Colorado. Constructed in 1962, 199-foot Paonia Dam crosses Muddy Creek just upstream from its junction with Anthracite Creek....

Paddling the Green River to report on Western water issues – Water Buffs Podcast...

Journalist Heather Hansman floated the Green River to explore water issues in the American West, then wrote a fascinating book about her journey.

Colorado mitigation “bank” to offset wetland damage, meet Clean Water Act rules

A developer who disrupts wetlands or streams can offset that impact by buying credits generated from floodplain and ecosystem restoration.
Navajo Water photo 1

As water reaches eastern Navajo communities, it brings possibilities and homecomings

The Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project, under construction in New Mexico, is testing approaches for improving access to running water.

Saving a river

In the arid Southwest, where water scarcity often divides competing interests, an innovative approach could become the model for future cooperation. Brad Hicks shows you how a river is being...

The water war in Indian Wells Valley

California pistachio farmers are facing off against the U.S. Navy over water rights. The outcome could shape future legal fights as climate change upends the status quo.