The Colorado River water crisis: Its origin and the future

During much of the 21st century, natural runoff in Colorado River basin has declined, while consumption remained relatively constant, leading to historically low reservoir storage. Between January 2000 and April 2023, amount water stored Lake Mead Powell, two largest reservoirs United States, declined by 33.5 million acre feet (41.3 billion cubic meters). As total basin-wide storage was sufficient support century average rate for only 15 months. Runoff spring 2023 is predicted be large, providing a short-term reprieve. However, it will take four five additional unusually wet years succession refill Powell if use remains unchanged. Increasing evapotranspiration dry soils associated with global climate change makes such scenario unlikely. To stabilize storage, needs equal modern runoff. recover decline even more. Based on runoff, 13%–20% would allow stabilization some recovery. Future policy debate about operations inevitably concern whether most, or all, should Powell. The choice one other result significantly different environmental recreational outcomes Glen Canyon Grand Canyon. This article categorized under: Water Life > Stresses Pressures Ecosystems Human Governance Science Environmental Change