Learn the history and challenges facing the West’s most dramatic and developed river. 

The Layperson’s Guide to the Colorado River Basin introduces the 1,450-mile river that sustains 40 million people and millions of acres of farmland spanning seven states and parts of northern Mexico.

The 28-page primer explains how the river’s water is shared and managed as the Southwest transitions to a hotter and drier climate.

The guide covers the agricultural, tribal, environmental and recreational interests tied to the Colorado as it gushes from the Rocky Mountains, carves through the Grand Canyon and trickles toward the Gulf of California.

Our poster-size Colorado River Water Map complements the guide. You can get a discount on the map and guide when you buy the Colorado River Bundle.