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Colorado River Basin (Arizona, Nevada, California, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming)
The Colorado River has lost a significant portion of its flow in recent decades, threatening water supplies for over 40 million people and major agricultural areas. This has forced cities and farmers to consider new water-saving and management strategies.
Central Valley, California
California’s Central Valley, a major agricultural hub, faces severe water shortages. Heavy reliance on groundwater during droughts has caused land to sink and aquifer levels to drop, putting long-term farming at risk.
Texas
Rapid population growth and industrial expansion in Texas have strained the state’s water resources. Some cities are already experiencing shortages, pushing the state to invest heavily in infrastructure and alternative water sources.
Utah – Great Salt Lake
The Great Salt Lake has shrunk to record lows, exposing lakebed dust that poses health risks and harming wildlife habitats. Reduced inflow and changing climate patterns are driving this decline.
Nebraska – Ogallala Aquifer
Nebraska depends on the Ogallala Aquifer for crop irrigation, but overuse has caused water levels to fall. This threatens both agriculture and the region’s long-term water security.
Mississippi River Basin
The Mississippi River, which supplies water to many states and supports agriculture, is under pressure from pollution, chemical runoff, and extreme weather. Water quality and availability are becoming significant concerns.
Idaho and Montana
Both states are facing water shortages due to ongoing droughts and reduced snowpack. Farming and ranching are especially affected as river flows decline and irrigation becomes more difficult.
Northeastern U.S. (New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey)
Even parts of the Northeast, normally known for ample rainfall, are experiencing dry spells and groundwater shortages. Some areas have seen soil moisture and streamflow drop, raising concerns about water availability.
