Colorado River Augmentation Study

Since 2000, the Colorado River has been mired in a severe and persistent drought. The result of the drought has been a combined reduction in storage of more than 7.3 trillion gallons (more than 22.4 million acre-feet) between the Colorado River's two primary reservoirs, lakes Mead and Powell.

In 2002, water in storage within these reservoirs declined to less than 50 percent of capacity. Recognizing the importance of a reliable water supply for the entire Southwest, the seven Colorado River Basin States agreed to conduct an analysis of potential measures that could be used to augment the water supply provided by the river.

Exploring augmentation options

Colorado River Water Consultants, a project-specific partnership between engineering firms CH2MHill and Black & Veatch, undertook the task of evaluating potential concepts based upon several key parameters and developed a report for the basin states.

A matrix of the 12 augmentation options analyzed as part of this study and the key evaluation criteria are available below. It is important to note that this analysis is intended only to provide technical information to water managers; thus, it does not include specific recommendations, prioritization of options or timelines. The report recognizes the legal, political and environmental issues associated with options, but does not attempt to provide guidance related to how they may be addressed. Request a copy of the complete augmentation study.

View the Summary of Augmentation Options

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