Focused on Future Water supplies and the Health of the Colorado River
Arizona is experiencing one of the lengthiest drought periods in modern history. As a state, we have prepared for a hotter and drier future and less water coming from the Colorado River. We continue to collaborate, locally and regionally, and remain focused on future water supplies and the health of the Colorado River. This involves making collaborative investments in intrastate and interstate investments to firm and augment the CAP system.
Colorado River Shortage
The Colorado River Basin continues to experience drought and the impacts of hotter and drier conditions. Based on the August 2021 24-Month Study, the projected level of Lake Mead for Jan. 1, 2022 was at 1,065.85 feet above sea level. Therefore, the U.S. Secretary of the Interior has declared the first-ever Tier 1 shortage for Colorado River operations in 2022.
Conservation & ICS Creation
The Intentionally Created Surplus (ICS) program was developed as part of the 2007 Guidelines and was substantially expanded in the 2019 Drought Contingency Plan (DCP).
Modeling
CAP uses three hydrologic models to provide a glimpse into the water future for the Colorado River Basin.
Law of the River
Legal history pertaining to the Colorado River.
