This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Edi

Feds release options for future of Colorado River as negotiations between states stall

submited by

Style Pass

2024-11-22 17:30:05

This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Federal officials released a range of scenarios on Nov 20 that could be used to manage the over-allocated and shrinking Colorado River as time for the seven basin states to reach an agreement grows short.

The Bureau of Reclamation's four proposed plans are not set in stone, but for the first time offer insight into how federal leaders are planning for the future of a river that is depended upon by 40 million people across the Southwest. A new long-term operating plan must be created before the expiration of current management guidelines at the end of 2026.

"These alternatives represent a responsible range from which to build the best and most robust path forward for the basin," Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Camille Calimlim Touton said in a statement. "I have confidence in our partners and the Reclamation team in continuing this work to meet the needs of the river for the future."