Colorado River Ecosystem
The Colorado River
"Spanning parts of the seven states of Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming (Basin States), the Colorado River Basin (Basin) is one of the most critical sources of water in the West. The Colorado River and its tributaries provide water to nearly 40 million people for municipal use, supply water to irrigate nearly 5.5 million acres of land, and is the lifeblood for at least 22 federally recognized tribes (tribes), 7 National Wildlife Refuges, 4 National Recreation Areas, and 11 National Parks. Hydropower facilities along the Colorado River provide more than 4,200 megawatts of electrical generating capacity, helping to meet the power needs of the West and offset the use of fossil fuels. The Colorado River is also vital to the United Mexican States (Mexico) to meet both agricultural and municipal water needs."
- Reclamation, Managing Water in the West
As you've read above, the Colorado River is an important water source, not only for us here in Arizona but across the entire western United States. It's crucial that we not only protect this water source but help others understand how important the Colorado River is.
Step One: LEARN.
In order to protect this water source, we first need to learn more about the Colorado River!
Step Two: ISSUES.
After learning about the Colorado River, we need to identify issues facing the Colorado River!
Step Three: AUDIENCE.
Now that you know the problems, who ELSE needs to know? Who should you talk with to help make a difference?
Step Four: RESPONSE.
What do you need to tell your audience?