Colorado River States Race to Reach New Water Sharing Deal by 2026

The Colorado River, a crucial water resource serving seven U.S. states, is on the brink of significant changes as existing water-sharing agreements are poised to lapse in 2026. The urgency to establish new regulations is intensifying as states confront the reality of diminishing water supplies.

In light of increasing pressures, a coalition of experts has drafted a letter outlining seven essential recommendations aimed at creating a sustainable framework for water-sharing in the region. This initiative underscores the pressing need for collaborative action among state leaders.

Seeking Consensus Amidst Division

The letter, crafted by a diverse group comprising academics and former policymakers, emphasizes the necessity for a collective solution to the ongoing water crisis. It advocates for a principle termed “shared pain,” which reflects the reality that reductions in water allocations will affect various stakeholders differently.

The division between the Upper Basin states—Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and New Mexico—and the Lower Basin states—California, Arizona, and Nevada—continues to present challenges. Notably, contributors to the letter include seasoned professionals from both sides, such as Eric Kuhn and Kathryn Sorensen, who bring valuable insights into Western water management.

The authors convey that adjustments in water use should not be uniform, advocating instead for a tailored approach that considers the specific needs and conditions of each state.

Encouraging Cooperative Solutions

While the Lower Basin states have proposed modest reductions, the Upper Basin has resisted cutting back on water usage. The letter disputes this stance, imploring all parties to cooperate in addressing the shrinking water supply.

Anne Castle, a co-author of the letter, noted in an interview, “There’s lots of wonderful legal arguments about why it shouldn’t be me that needs to use less water, but in order to have a viable and politically viable agreement, everybody has to do a share.” This conveys the essence of the group's call for unified action.

A Broad Spectrum of Recommendations

In addition to urging collaborative reductions, the letter warns against overreliance on federal funding as a remedy for the crisis. While previous federal support has been instrumental in averting emergencies, the current political climate raises uncertainties about future funding. The authors stress that forthcoming agreements should not count on taxpayer funding to compensate for water sacrifices.

The document also highlights the importance of incorporating tribal perspectives into water policy, adhering to requests made by tribal groups for greater involvement. Furthermore, it encourages implementing adaptable regulations to protect river ecosystems, aligning with the recommendations from non-profit organizations advocating for environmental considerations in river management.

The authors stress the critical need to prioritize public health and safety by ensuring reliable access to drinking water. The letter asserts, “There must be absolute protection of domestic water deliveries for public health and safety,” emphasizing that essential water supplies should take precedence over other allocations.

Responses and Ongoing Discussion

Responses from water management authorities in both Arizona and Colorado reflect a shared understanding of the need for collective action. Tom Buschatzke from Arizona concurs with the sentiment that all sectors must share the burden of correcting water imbalances.

Conversely, Colorado water official Becky Mitchell points to climate change's detrimental effects on water supplies in the Upper Basin, drawing attention to “mandatory and uncompensated” reductions already being experienced by these states.

Additionally, former Colorado water leader Jennifer Gimbel raises concerns regarding the enforceability of proposed cutbacks, questioning whether federal laws should override state regulations in the matter.