Law of the Colorado River: The View from the Lower Basin

Tuesday, November 4, 2025

9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. MST

Beus Center for Law and Society, W. P. Carey Foundation Armstrong Great Hall

The conference is free to attend with registration and will be held in person only.

Understanding the complex web of laws, agreements, policies and contracts that govern the Colorado River — often referred to as the “Law of the River” — is essential to navigating the river’s future. 

As drought conditions persist and reservoir levels decline, the divide between Upper and Lower Basin legal perspectives continues to grow, shaping negotiations and influencing decision-making at every level.

Hosted by the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, this symposium brings together leading voices from the legal, academic, policy and historical communities to spark meaningful dialogue and insight. 

Attendees will explore pressing questions, including:

• What does “compliance” with the Colorado River Compact truly mean — and how are the Upper Division States responding?
• Could the Central Arizona Project face curtailment under “junior priority” rules, and how close are we to that reality?
• What are the legal and national obligations under the U.S.–Mexico Treaty, and who bears the responsibility?

Through thought-provoking presentations and discussions, experts will analyze past responses to climate crises, examine current challenges, and share forward-looking strategies to foster greater understanding and collaboration. Join us for a day of in-depth exploration and practical insights on the future of one of the West’s most critical shared resources.

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