Water and the Colorado River

Water sustains the Western Slope’s communities, agriculture, recreation, and economy.

Protecting it means defending the ability to live and work here for generations to come.

Russ Andrews believes Western Colorado must have a strong voice in decisions about its water.

He will stand up for water rights, work with local water leaders, and advocate for investments

that help communities prepare for dry years.

That work requires both protecting existing supplies and using water responsibly.

Defend water rights and plan ahead:

Protect Western Slope interests. 

Russ will advocate for our communities in state water policy

and work with federal representatives on the challenges facing the Colorado River. He believes

the needs of farms, ranches, and local communities must carry weight in those decisions.

Pursue responsible water storage. 

Russ supports additional storage to improve drought

resilience. Proposed projects should be evaluated for their water supply, costs, legal

requirements, and benefits to the communities they would serve.

Support voluntary conservation. 

Russ supports working with water users on practical

improvements, including irrigation and delivery infrastructure. Conservation efforts should

respect property rights and help sustain agricultural livelihoods.

Protect healthy rivers and watersheds. 

Water quality and reliable flows matter to everyone

who depends on the river. Russ supports collaboration with local water boards and conservation

districts to protect those resources.

The Shoshone water-rights preservation effort is an important part of that broader picture. It aims

to secure lasting protection for historic Colorado River flows. As it advances, the public deserves

clear information about funding, legal milestones, and the steps still required.

Protecting our water takes persistent work—and a representative who makes it a priority.