LOS ANGELES – (INT) - The Colorado River Drought Contingency Plan was finalized Monday.

Seven states, the US and Mexico and ten Indian tribes that rely on the Colorado River are co-signers.

California leaders recognized that despite holding senior water rights on the river, it needed to shoulder its share of the burden.

Nevada and Arizona agreed to additional contributions, beyond those agreed to in 2007. And Mexico, reaffirming its partnership with the U.S. on water issues, committed itself early to its contribution.

Water rights leaders agreed that between climate change and severe drought, the Colorado River is at risk of critical shortage.

Story Date: May 30, 2019