Developing a Rio Grande-Río Bravo Basin International Research Conference

Stretching almost 1,900 miles from Colorado to the Gulf of Mexico, the Rio Grande/Río Bravo Basin (RGB) supplies drinking water for more than 6 million people and irrigation for about 2 million acres of land. The river also supports habitat for many at-risk and endangered species. Because of its size and diverse ecosystem services, the RGB faces complex shared-management challenges that will require coordination among many players. 

This project will provide opportunities for water managers and users across the basin to collaborate to prevent future conflicts and foster innovative water management in the face of a changing climate. The project leaders will design and convene one tribal RGB forum and will design and plan an additional international research forum. During the international forum, participants will share current climate science relevant to the RGB, including work funded by the Climate Adaptation Science Centers; identify climate science needs of partners; and identify on-the-ground examples and lessons-learned of how partners are adapting to climate change while managing water for multiple uses. Key topics will include environmental and cultural needs, surface and groundwater, legal and regulatory frameworks, Tribal sovereignty, and funding sources for future work.  

Building on previous basin-wide efforts, this project will continue to nurture sustainable, long-term collaborative venues for discussing the diverse challenges of managing the Rio Grande/Río Bravo Basin.