State Engineers Update Colorado River Basin Interstate Agreements and Conservation Efforts

The Wyoming Select Water Committee received crucial updates on interstate agreements concerning the Colorado River Basin during their meeting on August 7, 2025. State Engineer Brandon Gebhardt and Chris Brown from the Wyoming Attorney General's office presented a progress report on a pilot voluntary conservation program aimed at addressing water management challenges in the region.

The initiative is part of ongoing negotiations related to the Colorado River, particularly in light of the impending post-2026 operations of Lake Mead and Lake Powell. Gebhardt emphasized the importance of reaching a consensus agreement among the seven basin states to avoid potential litigation or federal intervention. He noted that the deadline for submitting a framework for this agreement is set for November 11, 2025, as part of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process led by the Bureau of Reclamation.

The committee was informed that the voluntary conservation program could play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration among stakeholders and ensuring sustainable water use in the Green River Basin. This program aims to mitigate risks associated with water shortages and enhance cooperative management of shared resources.

As discussions continue, the committee remains focused on engaging with stakeholders and the public to refine the conservation strategy. The outcomes of these efforts will be critical in shaping the future of water management in Wyoming and the broader Colorado River Basin.