The final EIS replaces the Colorado River operating guidelines adopted in 2007 as the basin enters a new era of water management. Adaptive operating frameworkRather than establishing a single operating plan, BOR’s preferred alternative creates a flexible framework for managing the Colorado River through 2036. Between 2020 and 2024, consumptive use averaged 13.1 maf, including 3.8 maf in the Upper Basin, 6.5 maf in the Lower Basin and 1.4 maf for Mexico and evaporation. Katie Hobbs (D) said the final EIS includes options she considers unacceptable because they could place an unfair share of future water reductions on her state. The Colorado River Indian Tribes also welcomed portions of the proposal, saying it protects existing priority-based water rights rather than imposing across-the-board shortages.