Source link : https://las-vegas-news.com/nevada-arizona-and-california-forge-ahead-with-colorado-river-conservation-plan-as-reservoirs-teeter/

Nevada, California and Arizona announce new water-saving plan for dwindling Colorado River – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)

Las Vegas — Officials from Nevada, Arizona, and California revealed a short-term water conservation strategy on Friday to address the Colorado River’s deepening crisis. The plan commits the three Lower Basin states to more than 3.2 million acre-feet in savings through 2028, amid reservoirs approaching perilously low elevations.[1][2] Lake Mead stands at 31% capacity near Las Vegas, while Lake Powell lingers at just 24% full.[1] This initiative builds on prior pledges and seeks federal backing to avert immediate shortages.

Breaking Down the Proposed Cuts

The agreement outlines specific reductions for 2027 and 2028, tailored to each state’s allocation under longstanding water rights. Arizona pledged the largest share at 760,000 acre-feet annually, followed by California at 440,000 acre-feet per year. Nevada committed to trimming 50,000 acre-feet each year from its modest 300,000 acre-foot allotment.[2]

Negotiators also eyed an additional 700,000 acre-feet in savings, with minimum targets of 100,000 from Nevada, 300,000 from Arizona, and 300,000 from California. These steps hinge on federal funding and partnerships, including incentives for farmers to idle fields and urban efficiency upgrades. The states emphasized that the cuts form a unified package, blending voluntary reductions with adjusted reservoir…

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Author : nvm_admin

Publish date : 2026-05-03 09:46:00

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