Lake Mead / Colorodo River Question?

Question

What happens if Lake Mead and the colorodo river dry up. All of Las Vegas and most of Arizona rely on this for water and electric. Lately I've been hearing alot that these could dry up in the next ten years sp what will happen? I could imagine it would be extremely difficult to have any sort of civilization with no source of water. And also are they currently doing anything (besides telling people to conserve water) to try to prevent this from happning.

Answer 1

If Lake Mead and the Colorodo river dry up, all of Las Vegas and most of Arizona will turn to dust and blow away.  As you point out, things become extremely difficult without water.

When all of Las Vegas and most of Arizona prohibit irrigating grass wherever it is - private or public lawns, along roadways, even (shudder) golf courses - it will indicate that they are ready to deal with the problem.  Actually, it may solve the problem.  I have seen few things dumber than pouring enough water on sizzling desert sand to satisfy cool-weather, water loving plants because they like to see greenery.  I want to scream, "You live in a desert, fool!"

Answer 2

The report I read was 20 years from now, and that's only if current trends continue.  We've had a weak snowpack as of late, but this could very well change and lengthen that time considerably.  This year we've had considerable more moisture in the West.  That doesn't change the fact that we do use too much water.  I'd imagine if supply does continue to drain, the price of water will go way up. If so, you're going to be seeing a lot less golf courses and a lot more imported produce...that will probably be the only way it will ever change...when it hits the consumers' wallet.  Southern California takes half of its water from the Colorado too...aside from Vegas/Arizona and these are all high growth areas because of immigration.  I'd say plan your houseboating trip on Lake Mead very soon!!!

Answer 3

There will be all sorts of hurt should this happen.  Fortunately, a complete cessation of flow is most unlikely -- it isn't likely to quit snowing in Colorado.  But a shortage of water could certainly occur.