Staging version updated 12/5/2023

An initiative of the Center for Environmental Journalism at the University of Colorado Boulder

Gov. Jared Polis on announces Water ’22 photo

State water education campaign focuses on individual actions

At the meeting of the Colorado Water Congress, Gov. Jared Polis unveiled a statewide initiative to educate Coloradans on water conservation.

As the Colorado River shrinks, can the basin find an equitable solution in sharing...

Drought and climate change are raising concerns that a century-old compact that divided the river’s waters could force unwelcome cuts in use for the upper watershed.

New flood maps show US damage rising 26% in next 30 years due to...

Flooding is the most frequent and costliest natural disaster in the United States, and its costs are projected to rise as the climate warms.

Data viz: Elephant Butte Reservoir levels

Last update: September 21, 2022 Percent of total capacity Source: US Bureau of Reclamation

Navajo water

Many residents on the Navajo Reservation are now enjoying clean, running water and solar power in their homes, benefiting from DigDeep’s ambitious project to transform their daily lives with...

Dropping reservoirs create ‘green light’ for sustainability on Colorado River

Dropping reservoir levels have opened a window of opportunity for water-management policies that move the river system toward sustainability.

Why the second-driest state rejects water conservation

A powerful group that steers Utah’s water policy keeps pushing for costly infrastructure over meaningful conservation efforts.

Data viz: Navajo Lake levels

Last update: September 21, 2022 Percent of total capacity Source: US Bureau of Reclamation
California wildfire photo

Devastating Colorado fires cap a year of climate disasters in 2021, with one side...

The year 2021 was filled with climate disasters from coast to coast, some so intense they surprised even the scientists who study them.
Glen Canyon Dam photo

As Colorado River reservoirs shrink, feds ask for work-arounds for 2022

As drought threatens Colorado River reservoirs' ability to generate hydropower, the Bureau of Reclamation is creating work-arounds.