Reclamation Releases 24-Month Study on 2026 Reservoir Conditions
The US Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) has just published its August 2025 24-Month Study, outlining expected hydrologic conditions and reservoir operations for Lake Powell and Lake Mead through water year 2026 (from Oct 1, 2025, through Sep 30, 2026). The study highlights the ongoing effects of historic drought across the Colorado River Basin and underscores the importance of developing stronger, long-term management strategies. Current operating guidelines, including the 2007 Interim Guidelines, 2019 Drought Contingency Plans, and international agreements in Minutes 323 and 330, are all set to expire at the end of 2026, and this study will help leaders and policymakers create comprehensive strategies going forward.
Additionally, the study details the required contributions of each Colorado Basin state to uphold current agreements and reiterates Reclamation’s intention to continue to meet regularly with basin states and Tribal Nations to collaborate on Post-2026 Operating Guidelines as part of their continued commitment to ensuring water security and promoting long-term sustainability in the Colorado River Basin.