Drought

The Colorado River system is facing the worst drought on record. Lake Mead's water level has dropped approximately 100 feet since January 2000. The Water Authority and its member agencies adopted a Drought Plan to weather the drought.

Southern Nevada is currently under a Drought Alert. Additional drought restrictions apply under this drought stage.

Valley working to keep drought at bay

Thanks largely to community compliance with drought restrictions and participation in various water-efficiency programs, the Las Vegas Valley is continuing a trend of declining water use.

Southern Nevadans consumed 15 billion gallons less water in 2007 than in 2002, despite the addition of 400,000 residents during that span and more than 40 million annual visitors in 2007.

SNWA monitors drought conditions

The Water Authority continually monitors conditions along the Colorado River, the source of the majority of our drinking water. SNWA is working with the other basin states that share the Colorado River to evaluate alternatives and find effective methods to manage the water supply. For more information, see the Water Resources section of our site.

Get water smart

Conserving water in the desert is everyone's responsibility. The Conservation and Rebates section provides useful tips and money-saving coupons and rebates.