The binational collaboration between Mexico and the US in Minute 323 includes the exploration of joint development of projects, such as seawater desalination opportunities in the Sea of Cortez region. This talk will present the results of a study conducted by a binational workgroup, including federal and state water agencies and NGOs. The study identified opportunities to develop approximately 200,000 acre-feet per year of treated seawater to benefit water users in Mexico and the US in an environmentally responsible manner.

Chuck Cullom has 30 years of experience in Colorado River management and water resources development in the southwestern United States and Mexico. He has worked at CAP for more than 20 years. He is responsible for developing programs, policies, and projects to protect and enhance CAP's Colorado River supply. Cullom has led the development of innovative conservation programs, collaborative water augmentation projects, and interstate and international policies to improve the reliability of the Colorado River system. He holds a BS from the University of Arkansas, and an MS from Northern Arizona University.

Lela Perkins has over 20 years of project management and scenario/risk-based planning experience to help clients throughout the Western U.S. and internationally to overcome complex water challenges and meet regulatory requirements. Perkins specializes in water supply and demand forecasts and surface water and groundwater system assessments. She excels in promoting technical collaboration across diverse teams and developing consensus among stakeholder groups. She is a registered professional engineer and holds an MS in Civil Engineering, and a BS in Engineering Science, both from Colorado State University.

Report Links

Executive Summary

https://www.cap-az.com/documents/departments/planning/colorado-riverprograms/Binational-Desal-Study-Executive-Summary.pdf

Technical Memoranda

https://www.ibwc.gov/Files/TMs_All_Portfolio.pdf