Blog | Western Water

Public lands in the cross hairs: officials, advocates sound alarm

A new Senate proposal could privatize over 250 million acres of public land. Lawmakers and conservation groups warn of lasting harm to water, wildlife, and access.

Gov. Hobbs reaffirms Arizona’s Colorado River priorities

Governor Hobbs met with federal officials to push for Arizona’s water rights, conservation, and tribal interests in the Colorado River post-2026 plan.

SRP offers free shade trees to lower summer cooling costs

Live in Arizona? SRP is giving away free trees! 🌳 Attend a short online workshop and get two desert-friendly trees to lower your cooling bills and boost air quality.

Lake Oroville near full as California launches new access rules

Lake Oroville is 99% full. New boat inspections, ramp hours, and trail closures now in effect to protect water infrastructure and enhance safety.

Forecast warns of weak snowmelt runoff in Wyoming basins

Reclamation forecasts below-average runoff in Wyoming’s Bighorn and North Platte River Basins, raising concerns over water storage and seasonal supply.

New gamma-ray method sharpens soil moisture tracking

New gamma-ray method offers accurate soil moisture readings over tens of meters, helping drought, flood, and irrigation planning.

About This Site

Western-Water is for laypeople who are interested in general water news and their water rights. Managed by a water paralegal with over 30 years' experience in Arizona water issues, you'll find calculators, tips and general information geared for water users in the Colorado River states. Do not rely on this site for legal advice. The picture was taken while hiking at Aravaipa Canyon, a must see!

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Deborah on Utah enters winter with low snow and high drought levelsDecember 20, 2025
Great point! Utah's residents do a good job on water conservation. Nevada does, too.
Helen Ck on California unveils Colorado River sharing proposalDecember 19, 2025
This entire subject rings all the alarm bells and should be approached with a jaundiced eye. California water dealings have…
Helen Ck on Colorado River talks near federal interventionDecember 19, 2025
By all means, let's get the feds involved. That should solve everybody's problems.
Helen Ck on Utah enters winter with low snow and high drought levelsDecember 19, 2025
While an enormously complex and largely neglected situation, as long as the current administration continues to dismantle federal programs, the…
Deborah on Border wall documentary examines water risk in southern ArizonaNovember 22, 2025
Perhaps technological alternatives could provide a balance.