Story perspectives

Arizona, California, Nevada Seek 3.2M Acre-Foot River Cuts

5/5/2026

Summary

Southwest States Cut Water

Arizona, California and Nevada submitted a May 1 proposal to cut at least 3.2 million acre-feet of Colorado River water, adding 700,000 acre-feet and drawing up to 300,000 acre-feet from Inflation Reduction Act funds.
Arizona will cut 300,000 acre-feet, California 300,000, Nevada 100,000.
The cuts aim to keep Lake Powell and Lake Mead above levels and avoid energy loss.
The Bureau of Reclamation will issue a rule by October 1.

Summary

Upstream States Reject

The downstream states’ proposal has sparked sharp objections from upstream Colorado River basin states, citing controversial assumptions.
Negotiations on a new water-sharing pact among the seven basin states remain deadlocked because upstream states refuse the cuts.
Arizona, California and Nevada’s offer includes strings attached, prompting upstream officials to demand clearer terms.
Upstream officials warn the cuts could jeopardize long-term water allocations, heightening tension as the river faces unprecedented drought.

Summary

Arizona Tribes Secure

The proposal designates a 280,000-acre-foot tribal pool in Lake Mead for Arizona tribes during shortages.
Federal agencies will mainly supply the pool, with Arizona tribes also contributing, while lower-basin states are excluded.
The pool honors water amounts promised in prior court settlements and federal-tribal agreements.
The Lower Basin states and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation plan to finalize a contribution plan by August 2026, separating tribal water to protect indigenous rights.

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Southwest States Cut Water

Arizona, California and Nevada submitted a May 1 proposal to cut at least 3.2 million acre-feet of Colorado River water, adding 700,000 acre-feet and drawing up to 300,000 acre-feet from Inflation Reduction Act funds.
Arizona will cut 300,000 acre-feet, California 300,000, Nevada 100,000.
The cuts aim to keep Lake Powell and Lake Mead above levels and avoid energy loss.
The Bureau of Reclamation will issue a rule by October 1.

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