Events › The Nature of Things: The Colorado River and its Wonders

A Study in Water Use and Conservation: Join us for a look at the geology, geography, exploration, national parks, and the status of the beautiful Colorado River today, with its natural beauty, current difficulties, and solutions.

The Colorado River is a critical source of the West’s water supply, supporting 40 million people, nearly 6 million acres of agriculture, and tribes across seven states and portions of Mexico. The Colorado River is the sixth longest river in the United States, flowing through seven states and covering 244,000 square miles, about 1/12th of the United States. Known for its dramatic canyons, whitewater rapids, and eleven U.S. National Parks, the Colorado River and its tributaries are a vital source of water. An extensive system of dams, reservoirs, and aqueducts divert almost all its flow for agricultural irrigation and urban water supply. Its large flow and steep gradient are used to generate hydroelectric power to several western states and Nebraska.

Brought to you by Chandler Nature Center and Chandler Library, The Nature of Things is a conversation series featuring contemporary topics in science, conservation and the natural world around us. If you are interested in local ecosystems, as well as Arizona's cultural and natural heritage, this speaker series is for you!

This program is made possible by Arizona Humanities.