Three Colorado River States Propose Water Cuts to Avoid Federal Takeover

Arizona, California, and Nevada announced a temporary agreement to save up to 1 million acre-feet of Colorado River water through 2028, aiming to stave off federal intervention as the current water-sharing framework expires at the end of 2026. The plan follows the driest winter on record and comes as negotiations among the seven basin states have largely broken down. Under the proposal, Arizona and Nevada would reduce their annual Lake Mead water entitlements by approximately one-third, while California would cut its use by about 13%. Combined with previous reductions from Mexico and the three states, total proposed savings reach 3.2 million acre-feet.

Arizona is especially vulnerable because its Central Arizona Project holds junior-priority water rights, a concession made to California that puts Arizona first in line for cuts during shortages. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, who visited Tucson last month, warned that any federally imposed allocation would satisfy no one because the system lacks sufficient water. If the seven states fail to reach a deal, Burgum will unilaterally decide water allocations — a prospect that drove the Lower Basin states to act voluntarily.

The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation is supporting the effort by releasing more water into Lake Powell to maintain hydropower production. However, Upper Basin states, including Colorado, have called for a mediator, arguing the plan does not do enough to protect Lake Powell. The proposal still requires approval from state lawmakers and federal officials, with the states aiming to determine how cuts will be allocated by August. Arizona farmers like Brian Wong, who irrigate with Colorado River water, are already seeking alternative sources, including wastewater from a former state prison that the Department of Homeland Security may reopen, while hoping negotiations produce a deal that keeps the federal government from imposing a solution.