The Colorado River deal announced Monday is more of a temporary reprieve than a solution to plummeting water supplies. The deep water cuts for California, Arizona and Nevada will tide over thirsty residents and farmers only until the end of 2026. The agreement among the seven states gives California, especially, some additional time (although very little) to prepare for a drier future, including a much steeper permanent reduction in its allotment of Colorado River water. The recent wet and snowy winter may tempt us to believe that our water crisis is behind us. California takes the most Colorado River water by far, so its cuts now and in future operating agreements will also be the largest and most deeply felt.

Source: Los Angeles Times May 26, 2023 17:28 UTC