Video library

The Colorado River: A Lifeline Running Dry

https://players.brightcove.net/665003303001/SJg0bzqkZ_default/index.html?videoId=4520031691001&usrPersonaAds=false

A drought in the western United States created a battle over resources, as private landowners compete with the public over access to freshwater supplies.

In April of 2015, California’s governor, Jerry Brown, announced a series of mandatory restrictions, forcing residents to reduce their water usage by 25 percent in the coming year. But despite playing a massive role in depleting local water supplies, the state’s powerful agriculture industry has been left unaffected.

It’s not just California facing a future without water. More than 40 million people across seven US states and Mexico get their water from the Colorado River – where demand is exceeding supplies.

So who really owns the water? And who decides when and how to use it?

More from the World Water Day video library:

Iran’s Water Crisis

Senegal’s Sinking Villages

China’s Underwater Hunt

Kenya’s Water Women

New Zealand: Polluted Paradise

Jordan’s Water Wise Women

Flood-Resilient Homes in Pakistan: A Traditional Future

Summary
Title
The Colorado River: A Lifeline Running Dry
Description

More than 40 million people across seven U.S. states and Mexico get their water from the Colorado River - where demand is exceeding supplies.

Recent Posts

Invisible Threats: Understanding Water Contaminants in the U.S.

Clean water is essential for life, yet millions of Americans unknowingly consume contaminants through their…

1 week ago

High levels of microplastics in human brains appear to be increasing

Human brains contain higher concentrations of microplastics than other organs, according to a new study, and the…

4 weeks ago

California: executive order to help capture and store more water from severe storms

From the Office of the Governor: In anticipation of a multi-day, significant atmospheric river in Northern California,…

1 month ago

Experts give the real facts on California water

From Governor Newsom: Scientists, water managers, state leaders, and experts throughout the state are calling…

2 months ago

Water Quality and Protection

Photo: A harmful algal bloom in Milford Lake, Kansas, made the water appear bright green.…

2 months ago

World’s Fifth-Largest Economy Is About to Ban Most Polystyrene Foam

An expanded plastic foam coffee cup is at a donut shop in Monterey Park, California.…

2 months ago