Shortage Impacts
The Colorado River Basin continues to experience drought and the impacts of hotter and drier conditions. Based on the Jan. 1 projected level of Lake Mead at 1,065.85 feet above sea level, the U.S. Secretary of the Interior has declared the first-ever Tier 1 shortage for Colorado River operations in 2022. This Tier 1 shortage will result in a substantial cut to Arizona’s share of the Colorado River — about 30% of Central Arizona Project’s normal supply; nearly 18% of Arizona’s total Colorado River supply; and less than 8% of Arizona’s total water use. Nearly all the reductions within Arizona will be borne by Central Arizona Project (CAP) water users. In 2022, reductions will be determined by Arizona’s priority system – the result will be less available Colorado River water for central Arizona agricultural users.
A matter of priorities
To understand these impacts, see an “explainer” on the CAP Priority System.
IMPACTS BY PRIORITY POOL
See impacts by priority pool, mitigation agreements and resources, and DCP agreements.
RELATED CAP PRESENTATIONS
- June 24, 2021 Water Users Shortage Briefing
- April 29, 2021 CAP Board Meeting Joint Colorado River Shortage Preparedness Briefing
- April 1, 2021 CAP Board Meeting Preparation for Possibility of Tier One Shortage in 2022
- March 4, 2021 CAP Board Meeting Preparation for Possibility of Tier One Shortage in 2022
- February 4, 2021 CAP Board Meeting Preparation for Possibility of Tier One Shortage in 2022
MORE ON COLORADO RIVER SHORTAGE
The Colorado River Basin continues to experience drought and the impacts of hotter and drier conditions. Based on the Jan. 1 projected level of Lake Mead at 1,065.85 feet above sea level, the U.S. Secretary of the Interior has declared the first-ever Tier 1 shortage for Colorado River operations in 2022.
