The essentials
Federal order mandates 1.25 million acre-feet Colorado River cuts, with Arizona absorbing the largest reduction.
The U.S. Department of Interior has ordered 1.25 million acre-feet in annual Colorado River water cuts for 2027-2028, distributing reductions across the seven states and Mexico that depend on the river. Arizona faces the largest reduction at 760,000 acre-feet, followed by California with 440,000 acre-feet, Mexico with 250,000 acre-feet, and Nevada with 50,000 acre-feet.
The Colorado River currently provides water to 35-40 million people across seven states and Mexico, making these cuts significant for agricultural, municipal, and industrial users throughout the region. The reduction order represents a coordinated federal response to address water availability challenges affecting the entire basin.
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Reduction burden falls unevenly across Colorado River basin
Arizona bears 61% of the total 1.25 million acre-feet reduction, while California absorbs 35%, Mexico 20%, and Nevada 4%. This unequal distribution reflects differing water rights, historical allocations, and basin priorities as determined by federal order.
Cuts affect water security for millions across western region
The 35-40 million people depending on Colorado River water face allocation reductions that ripple through agriculture, cities, and industries. The federal cuts represent one year's action within the broader multi-year water management strategy for the river basin.