Current Events

President Trump freezes $4 billion set aside by President Biden for the Colorado River. Trump's administration shifts course on Ukraine, leading to European allies breaking with the nation. Massive child abuse trial against surgeon Joël Le Scouarnec begins in France. South African cellist and composer Abel Selaocoe talks about his new album. Blocking internet from smartphones improves wellbeing. Mikaela Shiffrin wins Slalom at Audi FIS Ski World Cup.

International Relations, Environmental Policy, Criminal Justice

U.S. opposes a resolution demanding that Russia withdraw from Ukraine, Trump funding freeze includes payments to keep the Colorado River flowing, massive child sex abuse trial begins in France.

Impact of President Trump's Executive Order on Colorado River Funding

President Trump's executive order paused funding meant to protect the flow of the Colorado River, which supplies drinking water to 40 million people and supports a massive agricultural economy. This has caused concern among farmers and water conservation experts about the impact on water conservation programs and river sustainability.

Colorado River Water Sharing Agreement

The seven states sharing the Colorado River have a 2026 deadline for a new sharing agreement. The Biden administration is urging them to expedite the process to prevent the Trump administration from influencing the agreement.

Recent Damage to River Outlet Works at Glen Canyon Dam

Recent damage to the river outlet works at Glen Canyon Dam has raised concerns about water management in the Colorado River basin, impacting 40 million people who rely on it.

Plumbing problems at Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River

Plumbing problems at Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River are causing concerns about future water delivery to southwestern states. The dam's tubes are damaged, potentially hindering water release downstream. This could affect millions of people and agricultural producers who rely on the Colorado River.

Water Usage and Challenges on the Colorado River

The Colorado River, once flowing from the Rocky Mountains to the Gulf of California, is now heavily utilized by humans for agriculture, particularly for cattle-feed crops. A study found that irrigation for livestock feed accounts for a significant portion of the river's flow, exacerbating the challenges posed by a two-decade megadrought and overallocation of water resources. Intense negotiations are ongoing to address the future allocation of the river's water.

Impact of Conservation Efforts on Water Use in California

President Biden's wind farm plan opposed by Maine's fisheries and Southern California's Imperial Irrigation District faces delays due to a conservation program to protect the endangered desert pupfish and other species along the Colorado River.

Colorado River Water Management Plans

Seven states managing the Colorado River are divided over new plans to account for climate change impacts on water sharing. Upper Basin states want reduced water releases due to climate change, while Lower Basin states propose a new framework for water distribution.