WWA is renewed until 2026!

We are thrilled to share that Western Water Assessment has been renewed as a NOAA Regional Integrated Sciences and Assessments (RISA) program through August 2026! We look forward to continuing to conduct innovative research and working with our partners to advance climate resilience in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming.

Extreme weather events, climate change, and societal stressors are challenging the resilience of Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming like never before. In recent years, we have seen historically low river flows, record-setting wildfires, and extreme heat and drought, in addition to the compounding impacts of dramatic economic transitions for rural communities and rapid population growth across the region. The region’s institutional, infrastructural, and societal capacity to support the wellbeing of its residents is being severely tested. Our work has never been more urgent.

Over the coming five years, we will advance climate, resilience, and adaptation research and on-the-ground activities in partnership with communities, water providers, agencies, and others who are navigating these challenges. Our activities will increase the resilience of communities and water systems, with a particular focus on those at the frontline of climate change, including Tribes and smaller rural communities.

We are excited that our team is growing to include researchers from the University of Utah and the University of Wyoming, establishing formal partnerships and deepening our commitment to serving the entire region. For more information, please contact the WWA Managing Director, Benét Duncan, at benet.duncan@colorado.edu.