Colorado River Shortage Preparedness

The Colorado River system is experiencing long-term drought, exacerbated by hotter and drier conditions.

 

The Lower Basin States, since the adoption of the 2007 Guidelines, have taken proactive actions to respond to worsening conditions. Despite those efforts, beginning in 2022, the Lower Colorado River Basin will experience its first declared Tier 1 Colorado River shortage.

 

Within Arizona, we are prepared for these conditions, thanks in large part to our unique collaborative efforts among water leaders including tribes, cities, agriculture, industry and environmental organizations.

 

To protect Lake Mead from falling to even more critical levels, Arizona water leaders are continuing to work together within the state and with partners across the Colorado River basin to develop new approaches to protect and sustain our Colorado River water supply now and into the future.