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Interior Finalizes 2027 Colorado River Cuts for Arizona

8/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Interior Department finalized a two-year Colorado River water-cut plan beginning in 2027.
Arizona will lose about 760,000 acre-feet, a roughly 30% cut to its allocation.
Lower-basin states must voluntarily conserve an additional 700,000 acre-feet over the next two years.
Governor Katie Hobbs called the deal a win but warned Arizona will pursue legal action.
Lake Powell fell to 3,519.2 feet, less than 30 feet above the dam’s minimum operating level.

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Story summary

The U.S. Interior Department finalized a two-year Colorado River water-cut plan beginning in 2027.
Arizona will lose about 760,000 acre-feet, a roughly 30% cut to its allocation.
Lower-basin states must voluntarily conserve an additional 700,000 acre-feet over the next two years.
Governor Katie Hobbs called the deal a win but warned Arizona will pursue legal action.
Lake Powell fell to 3,519.2 feet, less than 30 feet above the dam’s minimum operating level.