The river that supplies 40 million Americans is down to 23% — and about to make a $25 million bet on one fish
The Colorado River is facing severe water shortages, currently at only 23% capacity, prompting officials to consider a controversial plan to release cold water to protect a threatened fish species. This proposal, however, could significantly reduce hydropower generation, leading to increased costs for utilities and their customers. As states struggle to reach a long-term agreement on water sharing, the ecological health of the river remains at risk.
- ▪The Colorado River supplies water to over 40 million people and is currently at 23% capacity.
- ▪A proposed 'cool mix flow' from Glen Canyon Dam aims to protect the humpback chub but would reduce hydropower generation.
- ▪Utilities are concerned about the financial impact of the cool water releases, which could lead to increased costs for consumers.
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As the Colorado River and its once massive reservoirs shrink from overuse and climate change, officials are faced with a decision that pits conservation against ratepayer costs for electricity.Recommended Video To fight off predators of the humpback chub, a threatened fish native to the river, Glen Canyon Dam in northern Arizona would need to do what is known as a “cool mix flow,” where cold water is released from deep in its reservoir to cool the river below. But there are no hydropower turbines in the cool, deep section, so significant power generation would be lost. The proposal comes after the worst snowpack on record for the Colorado River Basin, relied upon by farmers, industries, wildlife and more than 40 million people in seven U.S. states, tribal nations and Mexico.
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