Arizona Challenges Federal Colorado River Operating Plan in Court
The Arizona Department of Water Resources has moved to join a lawsuit over the federal government's next decade of Colorado River operations. Arizona contends the new framework overlooks key provisions of the law of the river and could cut its apportionment.
Arizona’s water agency is seeking to enter litigation over the federal government’s plan for Colorado River operations over the coming decade. The state argues that the new framework does not account for important requirements in the law of the river and might reduce the amount of water apportioned to Arizona. The dispute centers on how federal operating rules are interpreted and whether state allocations are adequately protected.
If the lawsuit proceeds, it could create uncertainty for Arizona water users and others dependent on Colorado River supplies. Farmers, cities, businesses, and communities may face changing expectations about future water availability. The case may also influence how federal operating plans and state apportionments are negotiated, with effects that could extend beyond Arizona.