Why the Colorado River Basin?

The Colorado River Basin is the lifeblood of the southwestern United States.

It’s the unseen hero in the region behind every glass of water we drink, every shower we take, and every crop we harvest. This river's reach is vast, supporting the livelihoods of millions and underlining the importance of every drop. The hardworking river is a powerhouse of productivity, providing water to approximately 40 million people across seven U.S. states, Mexico, and 30 tribes.

$1.4 trillion

Annual economic activity tied to the Colorado River Basin

It fuels industries and sustains a rich tapestry of biodiversity. For industries, it’s the essential ingredient, whether cooling data centers or bottling your favorite drinks, water is central to industries and fuels economic opportunity in the region.

Economic activity at risk if the river shows a 10 percent decline.
$ 80 trillion

The river also plays a crucial role in energy production, with hydroelectric plants generating clean energy to power millions of homes. Cities like Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Los Angeles rely on its flow for drinking water, sanitation, and recreation.

16 million jobs

The equivalent to about 1/12 of the total GDP in the U.S.

Yet, this vital resource is under threat from overallocation, prolonged drought, and the impacts of climate change. As climate change intensifies and populations grow, the demands on the Colorado River exceed its supply, putting immense pressure on all who depend on it. The river's flow has declined by nearly 20% over the past century, and reservoirs like Lake Mead and Lake Powell are at historic lows, hovering around 30% of their capacity. The river's rich biodiversity, including unique fish species and riparian ecosystems, faces peril as habitats shrink and water quality declines.

40 million Americans

Supplied by water from the basin. That’s drinking water for one out of every 10 Americans.

This water scarcity threatens the economic stability and quality of life for millions of people, highlighting the urgent need for Colorado River Basin collective action. Without immediate action, the risk of water shortages and the subsequent impact on agriculture, energy, and urban water supplies will only escalate. Addressing this crisis requires collective action and innovative solutions, where all stakeholders are unified and working together with a collective purpose.

5.5 million acres

Irrigated by the Colorado River Basin, producing 15% of the US crops and 13% of livestock.

It is the cornerstone of agriculture, irrigating nearly 5.5 million acres of farmland, which produce around 15% of the nation’s crops and 13% of its livestock.

4,200 megawatts of electricity

Providing clean power to millions of people and some of the U.S.’s largest cities.

By working together, we can ensure that the Colorado River continues to nurture our industries, sustain our cities, and preserve the natural beauty and diversity that make it irreplaceable.

30 recognised tribes

Each tribe has a unique relationship and history with the Colorado River Basin and its tributaries for cultural, domestic, irrigation, commercial and other activities.