US Imposes Continued Water Cuts on Arizona, Nevada, Mexico

Arizona, Nevada, and Mexico will face the same water restrictions from the Colorado River next year that they are experiencing this year, announced the US government on Thursday. Despite recent water-saving efforts, the long-term issues for the 40 million people relying on the river persist. The Colorado River is essential for the Western US, supporting seven states, numerous Native American tribes, and vast farmland, while also generating regional hydropower.

The new cuts will maintain the currently established “Tier 1” reductions, with Arizona losing 18% of its water allocation and Mexico 5%. Nevada, having the smallest allocation, will continue experiencing a 7% reduction. The figures—which are calculated based on Lake Mead water levels—are released months ahead of time so that cities and farmers can prepare.

The cuts were first introduced in 2022 to address the river’s critical state due to years of overuse and rising temperatures. Although predictions for Lake Mead and Lake Powell, which are only at 37% capacity, have slightly improved due to rain and conservation efforts, challenges loom. A number of the guidelines that direct water usage from the river expire in 2026. (This story was generated by Newser’s AI chatbot. Source: the AP)