(Reaction to the recent emergency water reduction orders).... The Department of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation ordered the reductions.

The emergency order came after the August 16 deadline arrived with no agreement between the states affected by the drought on the Colorado River. The first emergency water reduction order affects the states of Arizona, Nevada, and Mexico. Their apportionments were reduced significantly. The Feds say more order will come very soon, if the states do not come up with a conservation plan to save the Colorado River. Imperial Irrigation District Board President James Hanks has released a statement on the recent allocation orders. He said the IID appreciates the Bureau of Reclamation's work and that of their partners as thery collectively attempt to reach an accord that addresses the severe drought on the Colorado River. Hanks said more action is needed to further define reservoir operations at Lake Mead, including shortage operations. He said the District continues to be a willing partner in finding collaborative solutions and is strongly encouraged by the inflation Reduction Act for its forward-thinking investiment in water conservation projects and environmental restoration at the Salton Sea. He said they look forward to President Biden signing this legislation into law so they can advance discussions regarding new opportunities to sustain the Colorado River, which is Imperial Valley's only water source, while at the same time, developing solutions that protect the public health and the environment at the Salton Sea. Hanks said the IID would continue to work to provide contributions toward workable solutions.