Federal authorities are reporting a toxic algae blooms in Lake Powell, the nation’s second-largest reservoir.
The algae isn’t likely to harm downstream users that depend on Lake Powell’s water supply. But retired federal water scientist David Wegner says we need to keep a close eye on smaller reservoirs that feed directly into the drinking supply.
"Many of our water treatment plants that take water directly from a surface water source like a reservoir or lake, perhaps they don’t have the facilities to actually clean and ensure that that water supply is adequate for the public," Wegner said.
Wegner says major water agencies in Phoenix, Denver and Los Angeles are stepping up monitoring efforts.
More water news
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As President-elect Donald Trump and his transition team prep to regain the White House, critics are concerned about how they’ll handle water conservation in the West. But a key Arizona tribal ally of President Joe Biden believes the next administration is ready for the task. -
The Transcanyon Waterline, the only system providing water to residents and visitors of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, is facing more water restrictions. Officials on the ground are looking to prevent a public drinking water shortage. -
Arizona’s water agency has a plan to conserve water by converting agricultural land for other purposes. -
Inside a cramped room at a Las Vegas resort, leaders from five federally recognized Southwestern tribes came together during the annual Colorado River Water Users Association conference. -
Every year, SRP cleans a section of the Salt River canal system by relocating the fish, draining the area, removing debris and silt and performing repairs. This year’s cycle, from November to February 2025, involves cleaning up close to 10 miles of the 131-mile canal system.
