Guided by our core pillars of Research, Community Outreach, and Mentoring, COGS presents this comprehensive overview of Colorado River governance. From the 1922 Compact to the critical 2026 operational transition, we translate complex federal water policies into actionable information for Scottsdale residents and small business owners.
The Law of the River
The Foundations (1922–1968)
- Summary: The 1922 Compact divided the basin at Lee Ferry. Arizona’s 1944 ratification and the landmark Arizona v. California (1963) Supreme Court ruling secured our 2.8 maf entitlement.
- Key Highlight: The 1968 Basin Project Act authorized the CAP but placed us in a “Junior Priority” position behind California.
Modern Management & Shortage Tiers
- Summary: The 2007 Interim Guidelines and 2019 Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) manage shortages based on Lake Mead’s elevation.
- Current Status: We are in a Tier 1 Shortage, resulting in a 512,000 acre-foot reduction to Arizona’s supply, primarily affecting agricultural users.
The 2026 Horizon & Aridification
- Summary: Current rules expire in 2026. The Bureau of Reclamation is currently drafting a new Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
- Strategic Shift: Moving from “Drought” management to “Aridification” planning—acknowledging a permanently drier climate and pushing for the “Lower Basin Alternative.”
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TAKE ACTION: Your Voice in Washington Matters
The Bureau of Reclamation is deciding the next 20 years of our river. We need our federal legislators to prioritize Arizona’s long-term sustainability.
Sample Email
Subject: Priority for Arizona’s Water Future in Post-2026 Colorado River Operations
Dear [Senator/Representative Name],
As a resident of Scottsdale and a constituent, I am writing to urge your active oversight and advocacy regarding the Bureau of Reclamation’s development of the Post-2026 Operational Guidelines for the Colorado River.
The Colorado River is the lifeline of our state. As you know, Arizona’s 2.8 million acre-foot allocation is under significant pressure due to long-term aridification and the structural deficit of the river system. While our community has made historic strides in water conservation and efficiency, the upcoming Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will determine the stability of our water supply for the next two decades.
I ask that you support a federal framework that:
- Prioritizes System-Wide Stability: Moving away from managing solely by Lake Mead elevations and toward a model that protects the entire system’s integrity.
- Recognizes Arizona’s Proactive Conservation: Ensuring that Arizona is not disproportionately penalized for its “Junior Priority” status under the 1968 Act, especially given our state’s lead in leaving water in Lake Mead through the Drought Contingency Plan.
- Supports Sustainable Infrastructure: Advocating for federal funding for augmentation and recycling projects that bolster Scottsdale’s long-term resilience.
Our quality of life and economic future in Greater Scottsdale depend on a fair, factual, and forward-looking management plan. We trust you to be a strong voice for Arizona’s water security in Washington.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address/Zip Code]
[Phone Number]
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