Conservation

Two new books provide insights into the willful ignorance that lead to the West’s water woes.

The Trump administration's new rule ends federal protection under the Clean Water Act for many small streams and wetlands. But a scientist argues these are critical parts of river systems.

A new book looks at the Golden State’s history to understand its current water crisis.

Should Colorado River water be used to grow alfalfa or subdivisions in the Phoenix metropolitan area?

The head of the Colorado River District says any funding must be channeled through the Colorado Water Conservation Board to prevent speculation by private buyers.

This year, the first-ever Colorado River Drought Contingency Plan is set to launch, and water officials expect 2020 to bring unprecedented changes to the way the river is run, including cutbacks in water use by some states.

After a year of anxious waiting, scientists and researchers who’ve helped build one of the most successful species recovery programs in the nation have gotten a 13-year extension to finish their work.

As climate change brings warmer weather, Westerners are looking for ways to protect the region’s rivers and streams. In a special report for the Water Desk, Jerd Smith of Fresh Water News explains a strategy for safeguarding Colorado’s Yampa River.

Farmers, large and small, are beginning to grapple with what the state’s first major groundwater regulation means for them.

Several groups are studying demand management, underscoring persistent tensions between the Western Slope and Front Range water managers.