Basin Brief January 28, 2026
KAWC Yuma Public Radio As the federal deadline approaches, Colorado River stewards and water managers are openly debating which options remain viable to stabilize the river. Discussions now center on short-term operational changes, deeper conservation, and the possibility of federal intervention if states cannot agree. Parker Pioneer Local officials and residents raised concerns over proposed […]
Basin Brief January 26, 2026
January 26, 2026 ABC15 Arizona The Central Arizona Project’s general manager warned that deeper Colorado River cuts would have severe impacts across Arizona, affecting municipal supplies, agriculture, and long-term planning. Officials stressed that Arizona is particularly vulnerable because CAP deliveries are among the first reduced during shortages. Lake Havasu News Herald Arizona lawmakers are weighing […]
Basin Brief January 23, 2026
Federal officials again summoned governors from all seven Colorado River Basin states to Washington, D.C., signaling growing concern that negotiations remain stuck. Reports indicate the federal government is preparing to step in more forcefully if states cannot agree on near-term shortage management and a longer-term framework. Governor Katie Hobbs is escalating efforts to restrict groundwater […]
Arizona Governor’s Executive Budget Proposal Includes Funding for Key ADWR Initiatives
Arizona Budget Proposal Includes Major Funding for Colorado River Protection On January 16, 2026, the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) shared details of Governor Katie Hobbs’ FY 2027 Executive Budget Proposal focused on preparing for long-term challenges facing the Colorado River. The plan includes new and expanded funding aimed at strengthening water security across […]
Basin Brief January 13, 2026
Arizona announced new groundwater management rules for parts of La Paz County, expanding oversight in an area long known for unregulated pumping. The move follows increased scrutiny of agricultural water use and reflects a broader push to protect groundwater supplies as Colorado River shortages continue. La Paz County lies within CRIT’s region. Stronger groundwater rules help prevent over-pumping that can undermine surface water […]
Basin Brief January 12, 2026
Several outlets reported on the release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, which outlines how the Colorado River could be managed after current rules expire in 2026. The draft lays out five possible management alternatives for operating Lake Powell and Lake Mead, including options where the federal government steps in if […]
Basin Brief January 9, 2026
Bureau of Reclamation – The Bureau of Reclamation released its long-awaited Draft Environmental Impact Statement outlining potential strategies for managing Lake Powell and Lake Mead after 2026, when current operating guidelines expire. The draft presents multiple alternatives, including scenarios where the federal government steps in if Basin states fail to reach agreement. No preferred alternative has been selected yet, keeping […]
Basin Brief January 6, 2026
KGUN 9 Tucson – Group urges Sahuarita to review Hudbay groundwater agreement Community advocates are calling for closer review of groundwater agreements tied to mining operations, citing long-term water security concerns. Cave Creek/Carefree Independent – Water at the forefront of Tuesday meetings Local leaders are increasingly focused on water planning as development and supply concerns grow. Santa Rosa Press Democrat – California’s largest […]
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 […]
Basin Brief December 31st
As 2025 came to a close and 2026 began, water issues across Arizona and the Colorado River Basin remained front and center. New reporting highlighted continued uncertainty around Colorado River negotiations, growing concern over snowpack levels, and major developments in local groundwater and community water planning. Local Groundwater and Community Water Planning In western Arizona, the Parker Pioneer reports that an Active Management Area is being proposed for the Ranegras […]