The Colorado River faces significant challenges in 2025, as new research highlights urgent issues regarding water management and conservation. This assessment stems from a comprehensive collection of essays and research summaries contributed by eleven members of the Colorado River Research Group (CRRG) and eight guest contributors.
Key Challenges Facing the Colorado River
The studies collectively address critical concerns, including:
- Declining reservoir storage
- Climate change implications
- Risk management strategies
- Water conservation in agriculture
- Equity in water distribution
- Governance of water resources
Overview of Reservoir Storage
Chapter 1 provides an overview of the current state of reservoir storage on the Colorado River. Contributors Jack Schmidt, Anne Castle, John Fleck, and others analyze trends and implications for future water governance.
Understanding Natural Flows
In Chapter 2, Jonathan Overpeck and Brad Udall argue against the assumption that natural flows in the Colorado River Basin will rebound. Their findings caution stakeholders to rethink expectations based on historical patterns.
Concerns Over Safety Nets
Doug Kenney’s Chapter 3 discusses the erosion of existing safety nets for water management, highlighting alarming trends that could exacerbate water scarcity.
Equity in Water Resource Management
Chapter 4, authored by Bonnie Colby and Zoey Reed-Spitzer, addresses the vital issue of water equity within the Colorado River Basin. Their insights stress the importance of fair distribution policies as demand increases.
Apportionment Schemes
Eric Kuhn’s Chapter 5 explores three different percentage-based apportionment schemes. This analysis is crucial for understanding the complexities of water allocation among states.
Innovative Proposals for Conservation
In Chapter 6, Kathryn Sorensen and Sarah Porter propose utilizing conservation easements and land purchases as innovative strategies to support the Colorado River system.
Future of Agriculture in the Upper Basin
Chapter 7, featuring contributions from Kristiana Hansen and others, discusses the viability of agriculture in the Upper Basin given decreasing water availability.
Moving Toward a Basinwide Entity
Lastly, Chapter 8 presents a vision for a basinwide entity to improve cooperation and actionable strategies among water management stakeholders, led by Matthew McKinney and Doug Kenney.
A Diverse Group of Contributors
The research compilation includes insights from various experts, such as:
- Bonnie Colby, University of Arizona
- John Fleck, University of New Mexico
- Kristiana Hansen, University of Wyoming
- Doug Kenney, University of Colorado Law School
- Eric Kuhn, Colorado River Water Conservation District
- Matthew McKinney, University of Montana
- Jonathan Overpeck, University of Michigan
- Brad Udall, Colorado State University
These experts, along with guest contributors such as Mahdi Asgari and Anne Castle, provide a well-rounded perspective on the pressing issues surrounding the Colorado River’s future.
Conclusion: Navigating the Deadpool Challenge
As the Colorado River approaches 2025, the need for effective management strategies is urgent. The collaborative insights from the Colorado River Research Group aim to navigate the complexities of the Deadpool challenge and secure a sustainable future for this vital resource.
