Biden will not complete his long-term plan

The Biden administration released a range of options for the future of the Colorado River to protect the needs of 40 million people in seven states and Mexico. The options include steep requirements for northern states to contribute more water to keep the Lake Powell reservoir functioning. Environmental reviews cannot be completed in time, but federal intervention may be possible if states do not reach a consensus. The seven states are urged to work together, as federal funding is at stake. The chances of an agreement by the end of the year appear low due to disagreements between the Upper and Lower Basin states. Critics of the proposals say they lack detailed analysis and call for basin-wide curtailments, agreements to benefit tribes, and new thinking on infrastructure. The conflict between upper and lower basins over managing Lake Powell’s elevations remains unresolved. While the federal administration is not speaking with the Trump administration on the issue, there are concerns about the uncertainty surrounding future river management. Ultimately, the Colorado River faces challenges related to drought, climate change, and water management that will require cooperation and innovative solutions from all stakeholders involved.

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