Colorado water scarcity drives economic concerns and regional tension

Water scarcity and aridification in Colorado are driving economic uncertainty across the headwaters counties, including Eagle, Grand, Gunnison, Pitkin, Routt, and Summit. A report from the Northwest Colorado Council of Governments Water Quality/Quantity Committee highlights how threats to water quantity and timing impact agriculture, tourism, and outdoor recreation.

Following a record-low snowpack and intense heat, Denver Water has begun increasing diversions from rivers and creeks in Grand County to refill reservoirs serving 1.5 million people. This move has drawn criticism from Western Slope residents and environmental groups. Officials note that reduced streamflows in areas like the Fraser River watershed can impact local water supplies, fishing outfitters, and aquatic ecosystems, such as fish egg survival in shallow waters.