Story perspectives

Colorado River States Face Deadline Amid Water Crisis

2/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Negotiations among the seven Colorado River states are at a critical juncture with a February 14 deadline.
Doug Burgum, the Interior Secretary, has urged collaboration, but disagreements persist, notably over mandatory Upper Basin cuts.
Arizona officials fear unilateral federal cuts if negotiations fail.
The Colorado River sustains about 40 million people, and its flow has fallen about 20% due to prolonged drought, risking tighter water restrictions.

History

Historical Context

The Colorado River Compact, signed in 1922, allocated water among seven states, with Arizona receiving 2.8 million acre-feet annually. This agreement facilitated extensive irrigation and development in the Southwest. However, ongoing drought has reduced river flow by 20%, intensifying disputes over water rights and highlighting the urgent need for cooperative management to sustain agriculture and urban water supplies for the 40 million people reliant on this resource.

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Story summary

Negotiations among the seven Colorado River states are at a critical juncture with a February 14 deadline.
Doug Burgum, the Interior Secretary, has urged collaboration, but disagreements persist, notably over mandatory Upper Basin cuts.
Arizona officials fear unilateral federal cuts if negotiations fail.
The Colorado River sustains about 40 million people, and its flow has fallen about 20% due to prolonged drought, risking tighter water restrictions.

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