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With reservoirs low, basin states discuss ‘natural‑flow’ Powell operations as deadline looms
Summary
As Lake Powell and Lake Mead sit far below average, basin states are negotiating a natural‑flow‑based approach for post‑2026 operations; Interior seeks consensus on parameters by Nov. 11 and finalization by Feb. 14, 2026. Separately, Nebraska has filed a petition seeking leave to sue Colorado in the U.S. Supreme Court on compact compliance and the Perkins County Canal.
The Colorado Water Conservation Board received an urgent hydrology and policy briefing as the Colorado River system enters another dry period and key interim operating guidelines are set to expire at the end of 2026.
Michelle Garrison, CWCB hydrology staff, reported sharply below‑normal April–July precipitation and soil moisture, earlier snowmelt and reduced runoff projections into Lake Powell. Lake Powell sits near one‑third full and Reclamation’s 24‑month study projects releases and elevations that could trigger drought response operations. Garrison said drought conditions are worsening across the Upper and Lower basins and warned that the…
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