"SALT LAKE CITY — As persistent drought and climate change threaten the Colorado River, several states that rely on the water acknowledge they likely won’t get what they were promised a century ago.
But not Utah.
Republican lawmakers approved an entity that could push for more of Utah’s share of water as seven Western states prepare to negotiate how to sustain a river serving 40 million people. Critics say the legislation, which the governor still must sign, could strengthen Utah’s effort to complete a billion-dollar pipeline from a dwindling reservoir that’s a key indicator of the river’s health.
Other states have had similar entities for decades, but Utah’s timing raised questions about its commitment to conservation and finding a more equitable way of surviving with less."
Sophia Eppolito and Felicia Fonseca report for the Associated Press March 10, 2021.
SEE ALSO:
"The Megadrought Parching 77 Percent Of The Western US, Explained" (Vox)
"Historic Drought Deepens In The West As Window For Rain, Snow Closes" (Washington Post)
"Report Calls For “Radical Changes” To Colorado River Management" (KNAU)
