Works

For nearly a century after the signing of the Colorado River Compact, Nevada’s water allotment of 300,000 acre-feet per year adequately served the population of Las Vegas. However, since the 1980s the city has experienced explosive population growth, forcing Las Vegas water officials to discuss new sources of water for the city. Our report explores historical, political, legal, and economic dimensions of Las Vegas' water use and the Southern Nevada Water Authority's role in the Colorado River Basin.

Even more powerful than the Colorado River itself are the international laws and treaties that govern its flow. But unlike a river, which can suddenly change course, laws adapt slowly to evolving popular perspectives. Our research examined the 1944 US-Mexico Treaty governing the Colorado River, focusing especially on the treaty's responsiveness to changing environmental attitudes toward water in the international realm. Although there have been minor amendments to the treaty that display concern for the environmental integrity of the Colorado River, much room remains for improvement.

With American newspapers under stress from changing economics, technology and consumer behavior, it's easy to forget how...