‘No water available’: Coalition warns Colorado River could drop to critical lows, calls for 9 urgent reforms

The Colorado River could reach dangerously low levels as soon as next year under dry conditions, and environmental groups say leaders aren’t acting quickly enough to address the crisis.

To mark the start of the new water year on Oct. 1, the Great Basin Water Network, Utah Rivers Council, Glen Canyon Institute and Living Rivers–Colorado Riverkeeper released a report titled “No Water Available: Commonsense Recommendations to Limit Colorado River Conflict,” outlining nine urgent reforms they argue could prevent deeper crises.

The proposals range from enforceable curtailment plans and a moratorium on new dams and diversions to re-engineering Glen Canyon Dam, protecting tribal rights, conserving groundwater and expanding both municipal and farm water conservation.

“We’re hoping that it’s goi