Federal Government Proposes Colorado River Management Alternatives for Post-2026 Rules

The Bureau of Reclamation outlines four potential plans and a 'no action' option to address water shortages and climate challenges across seven states and tribal nations.

The Biden administration released four proposed alternatives and one 'no action' option as potential replacements for the Colorado River's expiring 2007 Interim Guidelines.
The proposals aim to address water shortages, overuse, and declining reservoir levels caused by over two decades of drought and climate change impacts.
Key alternatives include a hybrid approach combining state and tribal proposals, a cooperative conservation plan, and options based on federal authority to manage water distribution.
The proposals will undergo environmental impact analysis, with a final plan required by August 2026 as legal agreements governing water allocation are set to expire.
Persistent disagreements remain between Upper Basin and Lower Basin states over how to equitably share water reductions, with tribal nations emphasizing their long-held water rights.