Contested Waters: An Environmental History of the Colorado River

"A wide-ranging, entertaining, and informative history with a strong point of view . . . . Students and professionals both will find this a comprehensive overview of a multifaceted complex topic." —Cindy Dybally, Journal of the American Water Resources Association "A much needed study of water use and contestation in the American Southwest. The author cogently explains the history of Colorado River use, water management, and conflict while showing the efforts to prepare for anticipated reduced river flows alongside increasing population growth . . . . Contested Waters is a valuable contribution to the growing library of western water studies and river histories. Summitt's explanations of water use, political negotiations, compromises, and agreements, as well as current conservation strategies, help us better understand the role of one river in driving historical change and economic development." —Jeff Crane, American Historical Review     "A useful, easy-to-read introduction and summary of literature on the Colorado River." —Eric P. Perramond, Journal of Historical Geography "April Summitt offers a well-written political and policy history of the Colorado River. . . . It will be a welcome resource for academics, policymakers, upper division and graduate students, and those concerned about the impact of climate change and debilitating drought in the American Southwest." —Benny J. Andrés, Environmental History