In news now: Phoenix-area water tensions flare as Colorado River limits bite. Robert Morris has led water policy analysis and reporting on drought impact and state responses.
Federal agencies have unveiled a 10-year framework to manage the Colorado River, mandating deep cuts to California, Arizona and Nevada while preserving flexibility for future negotiations as drought persists. The plan contemplates annual reductions in the lower basin and signals ongoing debate over allocation and long-term governance.
Across the U.S. West, the Colorado River faces unprecedented shortages as drought tightens supplies for cities and farms. Nevada sues over planned cuts; big reservoirs hit record lows; states weigh deeper reductions while El Niño offers little immediate relief.