Colorado River District to Host Annual State of the River Addresses

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The Colorado River District will be hosting its annual State of the River address events in a dozen Western Slope communities starting in March 2026. Each event will provide information on river forecasts, local water projects, and key challenges impacting water users in the region, with topics including snowpack, drought, the Colorado River system, and updates on the Shoshone Water Rights Preservation Project.

Why it matters

The State of the River addresses are an important annual tradition that keep Western Slope residents informed about the state of their local water resources and the broader Colorado River system that is vital to the region. With ongoing drought and interstate negotiations over Colorado River management, these events provide a valuable opportunity for the public to engage with water experts and understand the latest developments.

The details

The State of the River events will take place across the Upper Yampa, Roaring Fork, Middle Colorado, Lower Gunnison, and Uncompahgre river basins. While the specific agendas will vary to reflect local priorities, all events will cover river flow forecasts, snowpack and drought summaries, updates on the Colorado River system and interstate negotiations, and information on the Shoshone Water Rights Preservation Project. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions of water experts and enjoy a complimentary light dinner.

• The State of the River events will take place starting in March 2026.
• Residents must register in advance at coloradoriverdistrict.org/2026-state-of-the-river-meetings.

What’s next

Residents are encouraged to register in advance and attend their local State of the River event to learn more about the state of their water resources and engage with water experts.