Some 40 million people are anticipating potential water cuts on the Colorado River by the federal government.
The river supplies water to seven western states and irritates millions of acres of farmland. Negotiations over future plans are tense.
Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming have proposed actions addressing shortages be based on the combined capacity of Lake Powell and Lake Mead. Arizona, California, and Nevada want the federal government to account for the water levels of all seven reservoirs.
Draft regulations are expected to be issued in December.
