Colorado River States Strive for Water Agreement Amid Growing Concerns
The governors of the seven states that rely on the Colorado River met privately with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum in Washington to deliberate on the future of the critically depleted river. Despite the high-level talks, no formal agreement was reached by Monday.
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham highlighted the ongoing efforts required to reach an agreement, stating, “There is still a lot of work ahead to get to an agreement, but everyone wants an agreement, and we’ll work together to create a pathway forward.”
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs shared optimism about the meeting, noting the willingness of Upper Basin governors to commit to water conservation measures. Meanwhile, Colorado Governor Jared Polis emphasized his commitment to protecting the Colorado River, saying, “I always fight to defend our water, whether it’s at the Department of Interior, Congress, or the courtroom.”
Lowell Whitman/Department of Interior /
Utah Governor Spencer Cox expressed hope to avoid litigation, a sentiment shared by Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon, who stated, “I am wholeheartedly encouraged by our conversation and believe there is a definitive path” toward a deal.
While California Governor Gavin Newsom was absent, his natural resources secretary, Wade Crowfoot, represented the state, expressing cautious optimism about reaching an agreement.
The states are racing against a February 14 federal deadline to resolve disputes over water management, as decreasing snowpack continues to exacerbate the situation. Negotiators face challenges, including conflicting demands from lower basin states for guaranteed water supplies. Colorado’s chief negotiator, Becky Mitchell, voiced concerns about such guarantees, stating they are “a recipe that cannot get to success.”
California’s negotiator, J.B. Hamby, acknowledged the need for federal intervention, highlighting the role of the administration in facilitating state discussions. “The administrations…have this important role in sometimes knocking heads together, sometimes encouraging consensus, and having diplomatic discussions between the states to be able to move conversations forward,” Hamby noted.
This story is part of ongoing coverage of the Colorado River, produced by KUNC in Colorado and supported by the Walton Family Foundation. KUNC is solely responsible for its editorial coverage.
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