Join us for a talk with Nolie Templeton, Ph.D., P.E. on Central Arizona Project navigates 2026: Low snow, looming deadlines, what's next? Networking begins at 5:00 pm and the talk will be from 6:00 to 7:00.
Abstract: Central Arizona Project navigates 2026: Low snow, looming deadlines, what's next?
This presentation provides an introduction to the Central Arizona Project (CAP) and its critical role in delivering Colorado River water to central Arizona. As an engineering marvel, the 336-mile CAP aqueduct stretches from Lake Havasu to south of Tucson, serving 80% of Arizona's population.
However, the Colorado River continues to face a historic drought dating back to the early 2000s, with 2026 potentially marking the worst snow year on record. This session will detail the 2026 snowpack and subsequent runoff, specifically focusing on inflow projections for Lake Powell and the resulting impacts on Lake Mead. We will also discuss recent operational adjustments announced by the Bureau of Reclamation to prevent Lake Powell from falling below its "power pool" elevation.
Further complicating these record-low hydrological conditions is the expiration of current operating guidelines for Lakes Powell and Mead on September 30, 2026. The presentation will conclude with an overview of the Federal Government's actions to date, including describing the alternatives proposed in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement, how the alternatives impact CAP supplies in 2027 and beyond, and CAP's response.
