Negotiators for Colorado River water allocations have decided to skip a public panel at a conference next month at the University of Colorado, Boulder.
This move departs from a set precedent in which negotiators would typically update the public on what each state was planning. This is one of two yearly panels, the other being held in Las Vegas.
Conference organizers refused to comment on the conversations held with state heads. Organizers did confirm, however, they will moderate a panel between officials from the Southern Nevada Water Authority and the Upper Colorado River Commission.
The panel would have discussed the new distribution plan of the Colorado River as its current plan sunsets at the end of 2026. The lower basin states—California, Nevada and Arizona—have argued the upper basin states—Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and New Mexico—should also face water cuts during pronounced drought periods. (Source)