What does the Colorado River shortage mean for ... water conservation?

Explainer

As Lake Mead’s water level continues to decline, Arizona faces its first-ever cuts to Colorado River supplies under a multistate drought contingency plan. The largest reductions will hit irrigation districts in Pinal County, where farmers rely on lower-priority water delivered by the Central Arizona Project (CAP).

What role can cities and residents play? This explainer unpacks how municipal water conservation— especially reducing outdoor water use — can help stretch supplies, even if it doesn’t directly leave more water in Lake Mead. Learn how urban users can make a meaningful impact as Arizona adapts to a drier future.