Seven States, One River: The Struggle to Save the Dwindling Colorado River
Negotiations to save the Colorado River between seven US states have failed, with California standing apart from the rest.
The river is a crucial source of water and electricity for over 40 million people in the West.
The US Bureau of Reclamation asked the seven states to reduce usage by 2 to 4 million acre feet, potentially up to 30% of their allocation.
Six states have proposed a solution to cut water usage, while California will release its own, lower, plan.
This difference raises the possibility of a water dispute reaching the country's highest courts.
The lack of agreement and the six states proceeding with their own plan increases the risk of litigation.
The crux of the issue is priority of water rights when cuts are necessary, with California's Imperial Irrigation District claiming senior rights.
Arizona made a deal in 1968 for a lower priority water right in exchange for the Central Arizona Project.
The question of who holds priority water rights is becoming increasingly pressing as water levels in Lake Mead continue to decline.
Delaying action through potential litigation could be a hindrance and the complex water rights case could take years to reach the Supreme Court.
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