Story perspectives

Colorado River Dispute: 40 Million Face Water Crisis

12/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

Under U.S. President Donald Trump, the drought-stricken Colorado River dispute threatens 40 million people in the West.
Arizona remains in deadlock with upstream states Colorado and Utah over water cuts.
Arizona negotiator Tom Buschatzke says upstream states must commit to conservation before talks.
Federal officials aim to reach an agreement by February 14, 2026, or trigger intervention.
Low water levels in key reservoirs threaten water supply and hydropower generation.

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Story summary

Under U.S. President Donald Trump, the drought-stricken Colorado River dispute threatens 40 million people in the West.
Arizona remains in deadlock with upstream states Colorado and Utah over water cuts.
Arizona negotiator Tom Buschatzke says upstream states must commit to conservation before talks.
Federal officials aim to reach an agreement by February 14, 2026, or trigger intervention.
Low water levels in key reservoirs threaten water supply and hydropower generation.