January 21, 2026 9:22 am
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
January 21, 2026 9:22 am
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ

Basin Brief January 5, 2026

KJZZ – Arizona water chiefs report movement in Colorado River talks, potential Lake Powell protections

Arizona water leaders say there is some movement in long-stalled Colorado River negotiations, including discussions around protecting critical elevations at Lake Powell. While no agreement has been reached, officials describe cautious progress as pressure mounts ahead of post-2026 management decisions.

Mohave Valley Daily News – Arizona bill would add $1 million to Colorado River legal fund

Arizona lawmakers are considering adding $1 million to the state’s legal fund to prepare for potential litigation if Colorado River negotiations fail. The proposal reflects how seriously states are preparing for court battles over water rights.

Nevada Current – Tribes stake their claim on the Colorado River, and help conserve it

This article highlights how tribes across the Basin are asserting their legal rights while also leading conservation efforts. It emphasizes tribes as both senior water rights holders and active stewards of the river.

Circle of Blue – Tribal Water Rights Settlement in Arizona Reintroduced in Congress

A long-standing tribal water rights settlement in Arizona has been reintroduced in Congress, aiming to resolve unresolved claims and provide certainty for tribes and non-tribal users alike.

KLAS CBS 8 Las Vegas – Water shortage in 2026: Pressure builds on Colorado River, Lake Mead

Officials warn that 2026 could bring increased pressure on Lake Mead and the Colorado River if snowpack and runoff do not improve. Water managers stress that short-term storms do not erase long-term shortages.

SFGate – America’s largest reservoir remains in peril

Despite recent storms, Lake Mead remains far below healthy levels. Experts caution against assuming drought is over, noting long-term structural shortages.

Newsweek – Where Lake Mead water levels stand amid heavy California rain

Lake Mead has seen limited gains, but experts stress that precipitation alone cannot resolve decades of overuse.

KUNC – Colorado ends 2025 with extremely low snowpack

Colorado finished 2025 with snowpack far below normal, raising concerns about spring runoff into the Colorado River.

Farm Progress – Farmers face devastating water cuts as Colorado River disappears

Farmers across the Basin describe the real-world impacts of reduced river flows, including fallowed fields and economic losses.

 

Publicly Accessible Sources

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