Agreement on Multistate Drought Contingency Plan Signals Major Progress Toward Protecting Western Communities and the Colorado River

(PHOENIX, AZ – March 19, 2019) Today, the seven Colorado River Basin states sent a letter requesting Congress move forward with federal legislation supporting a series of Drought Contingency Plans. The letter comes after years of negotiations, with states pledging proactive conservation measures to safeguard the Colorado River and protect water levels in Lake Mead. Congress will now work to pass companion federal legislation authorizing the DCPs.

“Today is a major milestone for building a secure future in a more arid American West. The approval of the drought contingency plan by seven states and dozens of local stakeholders demonstrates collaboration on a massive scale is possible to address increasing water scarcity.” 

• Kevin Moran, Senior Director, Colorado River Program, Environmental Defense Fund