The seven states that rely on the Colorado River have submitted a $50 billion wish list of projects to address chronic water shortages. Federal officials are considering desalination plants, cloud seeding, and other supply-boosting measures as negotiations over cuts stall.
The Colorado River faces severe strain from overuse and drought. Its two main reservoirs, Lake Powell and Lake Mead, are near collapse after years of imbalance between supply and demand.
States have failed to agree on consumption cuts since 2022 talks began. Upper Basin states including Colorado and Utah clash with Lower Basin states over responsibility for reductions. The Trump administration must now set restrictions ahead of a September deadline.
Instead of forcing cuts, officials are eyeing new federal spending. Proposals include a desalination plant in Mexico, zero-water cooling for data centers in Nevada, and expanded cloud seeding in Utah. A groundwater export project from the Mojave Desert is also under study.
Interior Department officials have not yet reviewed the full list. Senators from both parties have signaled support for thoughtful investments to stabilize supplies.
