Summary
The Biden administration reached a landmark deal with several western states to stave off an immediate crisis with the Colorado River and the communities that are dependent on it. Under the agreement, California, Arizona and Nevada will take less water from the drought-stricken river in exchange for federal funding for cities, tribes and water districts. For a transcript of this story, click here . News wrap alternative : Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.Five Facts
- Why is the Colorado River shrinking?
- Who will receive the money from the exchange in the states?
- How will the proposed cuts impact agriculture?
- When will the managing guidelines expire?
- What are some ways water will be restricted in some states?
Focus Questions
What do you think of the agreement? Do you think it will be beneficial? Why or why not? News Analysis : If you could, what would you ask the person that was interviewed, Luke Runyon from KUNC Public Radio, about the issue related to the Colorado River? Alternative : See, Think, Wonder : What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?For More
What students can do : Check out this Daily News Lesson from August 2022 about the Colorado River. Has the situation changed since then? STUDENT VIDEO OF THE DAY “Extreme weather causes damage to local farmers” via Student Reporting Labs (SRL)This lesson was written by Yesly Xante Rivas, NewsHour Classroom’s intern. Fill out this form to share your thoughts on Classroom’s resources. Sign up for NewsHour Classroom’s ready-to-go Daily News Lessons delivered to your inbox each morning.
