Jump to this Video »
Unrelenting Drought on the Colorado River
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tu32N_Lwk5M

PBS News Hour

The Colorado River is a critical resource for the western U.S. But a megadrought that began around the year 2000 and exacerbated by climate change is jeopardizing the river's future and threatening to upend how its water is used and longstanding agreements between states.

Video length is 7:21

Learn more about Teaching Climate Literacy and Energy Awareness»


Notes From Our Reviewers The CLEAN collection is hand-picked and rigorously reviewed for scientific accuracy and classroom effectiveness. Read what our review team had to say about this resource below or learn more about how CLEAN reviews teaching materials
Teaching Tips | Science | Pedagogy | Technical Details

Teaching Tips

  • Consider having students research what drought in the Western U.S. could mean for their community and region.
  • If they are not located in that region, ask them to consider which climate-change-related hazards they are at risk for and how those hazards could impact the culture and economy where they live.
  • For another perspective on the Colorado River, consider watching this video.

About the Content

  • Understanding the impacts of climate change on water in the Western United States is key to planning for changes in water usage in the coming years.
  • This video brings in multiple scientific experts to discuss the drought and what it means for Western water systems, while also describing some of the water rights and usage that present significant challenges for agriculture and growing cities in multiple states.
  • Some adaptation measures in response to the drought are also discussed.
  • Passed initial science review - expert science review pending.

About the Pedagogy

  • Drought in the American West impacts food production and population migration across the entire country.
  • This video serves as a snapshot of drought impacts and possible adaptation measures.
  • This resource could provide a useful introduction for discussing food and water systems in the United States in the context of climate change.
Entered the Collection: April 2025 | Last Reviewed: January 2025

Jump to this Video »