Much of the western US is facing a drought. What’s the best way to deal with it?
Summary
This episode explores the connection between extreme heat, drought, and declining Colorado River levels in the western U.S. Host Rob Schmitz interviews atmospheric scientist Russ Schumacher about a new federal proposal to reallocate water among basin states. The discussion highlights the severe impacts on agriculture and communities, while examining how climate change exacerbates these long-term water shortages.
Topics discussed
Extreme heat in Phoenix and the Colorado River crisis
Sponsor messages from BetterHelp and Fisher Investments
Federal proposal to reallocate Colorado River water
Explaining the 1922 compact and upper vs. lower basin allocations
Tensions over water usage and agricultural impacts
Causes of the persistent drought and declining snowpack
El Nino outlook and climate change exacerbating droughts
Credits and sponsor messages from Dataiku and Up First
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