Western Water Reporting
Throughout the history of the American West, water issues have shown their ability to both unite and divide communities. As an imbalance between water supplies and demands grows in the region, KSUT is committed to covering the stories that emerge.
Reporters Luke Runyon and Alex Hager cover the Colorado River basin. They report from the snowy headwaters in Colorado to Lakes Powell and Mead, to the river's delta in Mexico.
KSUT is a member of Western Water Reporting along with stations throughout Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, California, Nevada, Wyoming, and Kansas. Stories are produced at KUNC in Greeley, Colorado.
LATEST STORIES
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Chris Clements/KSJDThere’s been an increase in hydropower projects across the U.S., including on different tribal reservations. But some advocates say tribes like the Navajo Nation aren’t being consulted enough about their development. -
Alex Hager/KUNCThe Fifth National Climate Assessment highlights drought as a major hazard in the Southwest and says its impacts are most likely to harm tribal communities.
MORE COVERAGE
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Winter snow in the Rockies provides the majority of the Colorado River's water supply. As negotiators work on long-term rules for sharing the river, a dry winter could add some urgency. -
A new document from the federal government shows how some pressure is lifted from states that use water from the Colorado River until 2026, but bigger challenges lie ahead.
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A report from the Bureau of Reclamation shows some consensus among water stakeholders but highlights lingering divisions among a diverse pool of water users.
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A new survey of farmers and ranchers found they mainly trust local agencies and have not taken much advantage of state and federal payout programs.
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The invasive rusty crayfish was discovered in Lake Granby, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife is concerned because of its proximity to the Colorado River.
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The System Conservation Pilot Program is ready to spend additional millions from the Inflation Reduction Act to save water in the agriculture industry through 2024.
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The latest study from the Bureau of Reclamation shows how a wet winter in 2023 helped boost Lake Powell and Colorado River water supplies. But experts say more cuts to demand for the water supply are needed.
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Cities throughout the Colorado River basin are looking to stretch out their existing water supplies in the face of climate change and steady demand. Some are turning to direct potable reuse, which treats wastewater until it's clean enough to drink.
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The laws that govern our region’s rivers and reservoirs are tough to wrap your mind around. But art can create an emotional connection that helps people understand what’s at stake, as seen in one painter’s depiction of the Colorado River.
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Data from Colorado Parks and Wildlife shows an increase in swiftwater deaths amid a snowy, rainy year.
