The administration announced a new federal plan to manage the Colorado River crisis, potentially cutting Arizona's water supply by more than 75%.
The administration announced a new federal plan on Friday to manage the Colorado River crisis, which could result in water cuts of up to 77% for Arizona. The plan, part of an Environmental Impact Statement, offers a 10-year framework that allows for adjustments every two years based on supply. While the lower basin states—California, Arizona, and Nevada—face mandated reductions, the upper basin states—Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming—are currently spared from mandatory cuts. Arizona leaders, including Governor Katie Hobbs and Representative Adelita Grijalva, have criticized the plan for placing a disproportionate burden on Arizona. They argue that the upper basin states should also take a fair share of the cuts. The plan follows a period of 25-year megadrought and record-low water levels in Lake Powell and Lake Mead. Experts warn that without a major turnaround, Lake Powell could reach its minimum power pool by 2027, threatening hydroelectricity production. The federal government is expected to release a final record of decision next week.