Read a Prepublication Chapter by Dr. Megdal in the Upcoming Water Diplomacy Handbook
Factors that Contribute to Successful Diplomatic Outcomes: Case Study of the Colorado River Basin Cross-boundary Institution
WRRC Director Sharon B. Megdal's chapter in the upcoming book The Water Diplomacy Handbook is now available to preview on our website.
This case study provides insights regarding factors that contribute to successful cross-boundary diplomatic outcomes in the Colorado River Basin. The highlighted factors are based on the author’s study of and participation in water policy and management within the Colorado River Basin, along with observations of other areas. The Colorado River, which provides water to seven states in the western United States, two states in Mexico, and several Native Nations, has experienced stressed hydrologic conditions since the turn of the century. These conditions have often required difficult negotiations on matters related to sharing the burden of reduced Colorado River water deliveries.