Archive for March 2025

The quest for innovative water conservation solutions has led Colorado to explore the potential of reducing reservoir evaporation through the implementation of floating solar technology. This approach aims to mitigate significant water losses from reservoirs and canals, particularly crucial in the drought-stricken Colorado River Basin.   A recent feasibility study conducted by the Colorado Water…

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is developing a pivotal Agricultural Climate Resilience strategy, aiming to safeguard the state’s diverse agricultural sector against escalating climate challenges.    The CDFA’s strategy marks a significant step in shaping California ag policy to address climate impacts. The goal is to create a unified framework that guides…

A recent study by the Texas Water Resources Institute (TWRI) has shed light on the critical issue of transboundary aquifer vulnerability along the US-Mexico border. This research pinpoints areas facing significant pressure due to overutilization and provides essential data for water management. The study focuses on identifying areas within 73 transboundary hydrogeological units that are…

The increasing frequency of wildfires in arid regions has brought to the forefront the critical issue of wildfire impacts on water. A new interdisciplinary study provides a crucial framework for understanding how these fires affect water quality and ecosystem recovery in arid watersheds.   Key findings from the study showed that precipitation patterns play a…

The dynamics of coastal subsidence are playing a crucial role in reshaping sea level rise projections along the California coastline. A recent NASA-led study has unveiled the significant impacts of localized land motion, highlighting the necessity for a refined approach to coastal water management.   Traditional sea level rise projections, often based solely on ocean…

The regulatory landscape of the US is facing a significant transformation, impacting how projects, particularly within the water industry, are permitted and executed. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), in particular, is currently undergoing dramatic alterations.   Recent executive actions (Executive Order 14154) have initiated a substantial NEPA reform. The revocation of a 1977 executive…

A new study reveals significant impacts from insecticide use US butterfly populations, signaling broader risks to ecosystem health. The research highlights a 22% drop in butterfly abundance between 2000 and 2020. This decline raises critical questions about the health of our ecosystems and the role of chemical use. The study utilized data from 35 monitoring…

Arizona has made a significant stride in addressing its water challenges with the approval of new Advanced Water Purification (AWP) rules.  The approval by the Governor’s Regulatory Review Council (GRRC) enables Arizona cities and water providers to implement Advanced Water Purification projects. By facilitating water reuse, Arizona is taking a proactive approach to ensure a…

The recent US Supreme Court decision in City and County of San Francisco v. EPA marks a transformative moment for Clean Water Act Permits. Issued on March 4, 2025, the ruling addresses the controversial “end-result” provisions in National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. This decision redefines the responsibilities of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)…