Overview

• Federal officials set 2026 allocations that reduce Arizona’s share by 18%, Nevada’s by 7% and Mexico’s by 5%, while California is spared under its senior water rights.
• New Bureau of Reclamation projections show Lake Powell could drop below levels needed for hydroelectric generation by December 2026 if dry conditions continue.
• Interior Department leaders have warned that failure to reach a basinwide agreement by November 11 will trigger a federally imposed management plan.
• Negotiations remain deadlocked as Upper Basin states push for more equitable shortage sharing and Lower Basin parties resist deeper cuts.
• Voluntary conservation programs and federal funding have eased immediate shortages but officials warn they cannot replace long-term allocation reforms.