Where does the water go?
What's drying up the Colorado?
A comprehensive new study just out tries to give the “right statistics” for new guidelines regarding water usage from the Colorado River. Current guidelines are set to expire in 2026.
Here is another case of science being used to guide policy. Let’s hope in this case the numbers simply are what they are, and that the ongoing “tense negotiations” will continue and conclude as reasonably and fairly as possible. That is, no doubt, a tall order given all the human interests and values at stake.
One could wish for greater representation and voice for the river itself, for wildlife, for riparian habitats, not to mention all the living beings, human and non-human, from the future, who will be affected by present decision-making for generations. There doesn’t seem to be any way in our current system for that kind of representation to happen, that I know of.
The upshot of the study’s conclusion is that vast amounts of water go to irrigate crops to feed livestock, i.e. cattle.
When the sustainability and carbon footprint folks advocate for reducing beef consumption? — They’re right.
Can you do with less hamburger and steak?
For the sake of saving one of the greatest rivers of all time?
P.S. Some urgent family situations have arisen, and I’ll be traveling. I’ll try to keep posting, but if I don’t get to it, see you as soon as possible! Thank you, as always, for reading.