Cool Water Decision Sparks Conflict | Santa Fe News

Federal officials have scrapped cool water releases from Glen Canyon Dam this year, opting to prioritize hydropower amid critically low Colorado River levels and record-low snowpack. The move, while protecting threatened humpback chub fish, risks worsening the invasive smallmouth bass problem and could hike electricity costs for ratepayers. Conservationists lament the loss of a proven tool to combat bass, warning it may harm native species and trout fisheries. Instead, agencies will focus on invasive removal, habitat modification, and new strategies — all while balancing ecological needs with the river’s vital role for millions across seven states, tribes, and Mexico. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/10b7561dc865164c