Can we restore the Colorado River delta?

The Colorado River delta in Mexico merits conservation due to the value of its habitat and wildlife resources. Colorado River water sustains the deltaʹs current extent of 60,000 ha but the instream flow is not protected. Analysis of Colorado River water use by different sectors of the United States and Mexican economies demonstrates that agriculture uses most of the riverʹs water but contributes only a small portion of the regional economy. Despite increasing consumptive demands on the river, it may be possible to purchase or dedicate water for the delta ecosystem if government commitments to ecosystem restoration and species preservation can be implemented