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.
Key Points
- The Colorado River's water is heavily utilized for irrigation, particularly for cattle-feed crops like alfalfa.
- Livestock farming uses a significant portion of the river's flow, contributing to water scarcity and challenges.
- Intense negotiations are ongoing among various stakeholders to address the overallocation and diminishing water resources of the Colorado River.