President Signs Landmark Legislation for Colorado River Drought Contingency Plan

(WASHINGTON, DC) President Trump signed a bill today authorizing a drought contingency plan (DCP) to protect the Colorado River, following the bill’s passage through Congress with bipartisan support.

The law follows years of negotiations and effort among the seven Colorado River basin states. It will allow for voluntary, proactive conservation measures to take effect and bolster water levels in Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the country. 

“This is a historic moment for the Colorado River, the West and the entire country. Passing the drought contingency plan sets in place a foundation for conservation that will ensure a more secure future for the American Southwest.

“Now comes the hard work of implementing the DCP in each state. We look forward to continuing to partner with the basin states, farmers, cities, water agencies, tribes and businesses to drive implementation forward.”

• Kevin Moran, Senior Director, Colorado River Program, Environmental Defense Fund