Story perspectives

Thirsty Plants Threaten Colorado River's Water Supply

3/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

A new study finds thirsty plants draw water from groundwater reserves, impacting the Colorado River's flow.
The effect is seen in the East River watershed, where plants maintain high transpiration.
As temperatures rise and precipitation declines, negotiations between the upper and lower Colorado River basins face challenges.
Researchers say the water budget must be revised to account for increased summer transpiration to prevent a 40% mid-century decline in water availability.

1 of 1

Story summary

A new study finds thirsty plants draw water from groundwater reserves, impacting the Colorado River's flow.
The effect is seen in the East River watershed, where plants maintain high transpiration.
As temperatures rise and precipitation declines, negotiations between the upper and lower Colorado River basins face challenges.
Researchers say the water budget must be revised to account for increased summer transpiration to prevent a 40% mid-century decline in water availability.