Is drying up the Colorado River going to dry up Utah?

Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes KEY TAKEAWAYS

Seven Colorado River basin states face a Tuesday deadline for water use reduction.

The river's dwindling levels threaten Utah's agriculture and water supply stability.

Officials seek consensus on conservation plans to extend the river's viability past 2026.

SALT LAKE CITY — The seven states that make up the Colorado River basin are facing a Tuesday decision with the federal government on a commitment to draw down on water use on a river in crisis.

The Colorado River, described as the hardest working river in the West, is dwindling due to drought and diversions.

At its sprawling length of 1,450 miles, it is the sixth largest river in the United States, providing water to 40 million users and irrigating vital crops.

Will it last?

The Co