Environmental Studies and Forestry

New water accounting reveals why the Colorado River no longer reaches the sea

B. D. Richter, G. Lamsal, et al.

This research paper reveals crucial insights into the water budget for the Colorado River from 2000-2019, demonstrating that irrigated agriculture consumes a staggering 74% of direct human usage. Conducted by Brian D Richter and colleagues, the study emphasizes the importance of effective water management strategies to tackle the challenges of water consumption.

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Abstract

This research paper presents a comprehensive water budget for the Colorado River from 2000-2019, revealing the extent of water consumption before it reaches the sea. Irrigated agriculture is identified as the dominant water consumer (74% of direct human use and 52% of overall consumption), with grass hay accounting for a significant portion. The study also highlights indirect water losses due to reservoir evaporation and riparian/wetland evapotranspiration. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive water management strategies to balance water use with available supplies.

Publisher

Communications Earth & Environment

Published On

Mar 28, 2024

Authors

Brian D Richter, Gambhir Lamsal, Landon Marston, Sameer Dhakal, Laljeet Singh Sangha, Richard R Rushforth, Dongyang Wei, Benjamin L Ruddell, Kyle Frankel Davis, Astrid Hernandez-Cruz, Samuel Sandoval-Solis, John C Schmidt

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