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Colorado River Faces 2027 Collapse Amid Drought Crisis

10/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Environmental groups warn the Colorado River faces collapse by 2027, citing low water levels and threatening seven states and 40 million people.
The river is overdrawn due to climate change and drought; allocations stall, and Bureau of Reclamation offers little transparency.
Mark Squillace, a law professor, calls for federal leadership and a new water-management contract, focusing on Glen Canyon Dam.

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Story summary

Environmental groups warn the Colorado River faces collapse by 2027, citing low water levels and threatening seven states and 40 million people.
The river is overdrawn due to climate change and drought; allocations stall, and Bureau of Reclamation offers little transparency.
Mark Squillace, a law professor, calls for federal leadership and a new water-management contract, focusing on Glen Canyon Dam.