The proposal, introduced April 2, would implement the Colorado River Basin Drought Contingency Plan, created to ensure long-term drinking water for 40 million Americans, irrigation for 5.5 million acres of farmland and hydropower across the West.

The Colorado River Basin drains more than 246,000 square miles across the seven states and Mexico. The Drought Contingency Plan was negotiated between state leaders, Indian tribes and the federal government to respond to a prolonged drought in the region. It would establish water storage and use management parameters designed to protect Lakes Mead and Powell from reaching critical water elevations that would trigger severe water supply reductions and hydropower impacts.

To counter restrictions on water use under the plan, agricultural leaders in Arizona, for example, have been advocating for state and federal funds to help farmers complete development of water well projects and infrastructure.  

The legislation is available here.

A letter containing the plan is available here.

• Dave Natzke

• Editor
• Progressive Forage
• Email Dave Natzke