Colorado River Shortage

The Colorado River basin is in a Tier 1 Shortage for calendar year 2025. The announcement came from the Bureau of Reclamation based on projections for Lake Mead water levels. The shortage declaration means reduced water for some stakeholders who receive water from the Central Arizona Project (CAP); those stakeholders who receive a portion of their water from CAP include municipalities, agriculture, tribes, and others.

Understanding the Colorado River Supply (PDF)

While Scottsdale Water receives approximately 70% of its water supply from the Colorado River via CAP, only a very small percentage will be reduced at this tier of the shortage.

FAQ

View Tier 1 Shortage FAQ Infographic (PDF)

What does a Colorado River Tier 1 Shortage mean for Scottsdale?

• Municipalities, Tribes, and Industrial water right holders will NOT be cut in a Tier 1 Shortage
• Scottsdale Water will continue to deliver its normal water supply to its customers
• Scottsdale Water will evaluate implementing Stage 1 of its Drought Management Plan where water conservation awareness efforts will increase
• Commercial and residential fill stations may be shut down or restricted to those users residing outside Scottsdale's municipal boundary

How bad is Arizona's drought?

The Arizona drought monitoring committee updates drought conditions in Arizona on both a short term (monthly) and longer term (quarterly) basis. Arizona continues to show areas of severe drought around the state.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor Climate Prediction Center, parts of Arizona are in a Moderate Drought. While the Colorado River Basin, which supplies the water to CAP, received around a slightly above-average snowfall during the 2024-2025 winter season, water runoff in the Rocky Mountains has recently been more complicated to predict due to aridification of the climate. Even a few good years won't reverse the challenges on the Colorado River system. The Colorado River system is in a 20-plus year drought that continues to stress the system. Ultimately, long-term drought and climate change means less Colorado River water available to Arizona.

Will there be any changes to my water service?

As a resident or business within the Scottsdale city limits, there will be no immediate changes. The majority of Scottsdale's CAP water allocation will not be cut in a Tier 1 shortage. Scottsdale Water has planned for this event for decades by investing millions of dollars into its infrastructure, executing a diverse water resource portfolio, and creating a robust conservation program. But even with planning, Scottsdale residents and businesses are urged to maximize conservation efforts to ensure long term resiliency.

Will I have to cut back on my water use?

No. Residents and businesses are not affected in a Tier 1 Shortage and will not be restricted on their water use at this time. Scottsdale's Drought Management Plan does not affect an individual water user until a Tier 2 Shortage is declared. Should a Tier 2 be declared, Scottsdale will evaluate the need and potential to implement restrictions. However, conservation is always encouraged and highly recommended to preserve this precious natural resource; better conservation practices today will lead to more water in the future.

How is Scottsdale preparing?

Scottsdale Water has had the vision to plan and protect our water resource for the future. Not only does Scottsdale have one of the most advanced reclaimed water facilities in the US, but is increasing water storage capacity in our aquifers, investing in automated meter readers to empower customers to reduce water use, and is expanding conservation programs to inspire citizens to conserve more. Every drop matters and it starts in Scottsdale.

What can I do?

EVERYONE can make a difference... and every drop counts. View a list of Scottsdale's Conservation Programs to see what you can do. You can also go to our Residential Water Use page to find more ways you and your family can help conserve our precious water resource.

The US Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) both monitors and declares any shortages for the Colorado River. Below is latest information and projections by the BOR for Colorado River levels at Lake Mead.

Recent discussions among Colorado River Basin states and federal agencies have renewed attention on the high likelihood of a future with less Colorado River water and future water reductions affecting the Colorado River and, by extension, the Central Arizona Project (CAP) canal which provides water to Scottsdale. These conversations are part of ongoing efforts to manage long-term drought conditions and protect the stability of the river system that supplies water to much of the Southwest, including Scottsdale. The current guidelines that operate the system are set to expire at the end of 2026. Scottsdale will update this page when new guidelines have been finalized.

What This Means for Scottsdale
At this time, it is too early to know what specific actions may result from these negotiations or how any potential reductions might affect Scottsdale’s water allocations. However, it is important to emphasize that Scottsdale Water is well-prepared for a range of future scenarios. Our water supply strategy includes renewable surface water, groundwater, and reclaimed water resources, supported by robust conservation programs and active participation in regional water planning efforts. These measures provide confidence that Scottsdale will continue to reliably deliver water to residents.

Ongoing Monitoring and Coordination
Scottsdale Water remains closely engaged with the Arizona Department of Water Resources, the Central Arizona Project, and other state and federal partners to stay informed on the latest developments. As these discussions evolve, we will continue to evaluate potential implications for our community and ensure transparent communication with residents and leadership.

While the situation on the Colorado River remains dynamic, Scottsdale is in a strong position thanks to our long-term planning and commitment to responsible water management. We will continue to monitor events closely and take all necessary steps to maintain secure, reliable water service for our community.