Historical Watermark as Federal Government Awards $40 Million for Shoshone Water Rights
NEWS RELEASE
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Office of Colorado
State Senator Marc Catlin
303-866-5292
marc.catlin.senate@coleg.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Denver, Colorado – Friday, May 22, 2026 - Western Slope leaders are celebrating the release of $40 million in federal funding for the Shoshone Water Rights Preservation Project. The Department of Interior award is a major milestone in the effort to permanently protect historic Colorado River flows and strengthen long-term water security across the Western Slope and the West.
The Colorado River District has now secured approximately $97 million of the $99 million needed for the purchase and protection of the project. The funding will support the River District’s effort to preserve the historic Shoshone call and protect flows critical to Western Slope communities, agriculture, economies, and recreation.
This is a watershed moment as we observe Colorado’s 150th and America’s 250th anniversaries. It marks what many Western Slope leaders view as one of the most significant water preservation achievements for the region in generations.
The Shoshone Water Rights Preservation Coalition includes more than 100 water providers, local governments, regional entities, and bipartisan elected officials from across Colorado working together to secure the long-term future of the Colorado River system.
“As President of the Colorado River District and Senator for Colorado’s 5th Senate District, I am proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with the many local, state, and federal leaders who worked tirelessly to move this effort forward,” said Senator Marc Catlin. “History will look back on this moment as a major milestone for the Colorado River Basin and for the long-term management of one of our most precious resources. From Western Slope ditch companies and reservoirs to leaders in Washington D.C., countless people came together to ensure this project became a reality for the next generation.”
Senator Catlin specifically praised CD3 Congressman Jeff Hurd for making the Shoshone Project a top federal priority and continuing to advocate for Western Colorado water issues throughout the funding process. Senator Catlin also thanked U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, along with the many Western Slope counties, municipalities, water users, and coalition partners who contributed support toward the project. “It takes the Western Slope team working in the harness together to move mountains and water for our communities,” said Senator Catlin. “This project shows what can happen when rural Colorado communities speak with one voice about protecting our water, our economies, and our future.”
"Colorado's artists are entrepreneurs," said Senator Marc Catlin. "They create jobs, support local businesses, attract visitors, and contribute to the identity of communities across our state. The Colorado Artist Company Act creates a business structure designed specifically for creative professionals, helping artists maintain ownership of their work while providing new opportunities to grow, collaborate, and build sustainable businesses."
Colorado State Senator Marc Catlin represents the seven counties of Delta, Eagle, Garfield, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Montrose, and Pitkin. Senator Catlin is a member of the Agriculture & Natural Resources; Transportation & Energy; and Business, Labor, & Technology Committees. Senator Catlin also serves as a Member on the Colorado Tourism Board.
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Summary of Shoshone Water Rights Preservation Project Funding Award
Project: Shoshone Water Rights Preservation Project
Advocate: Senator Marc Catlin, President of the Colorado River District
Purpose: Supports the acquisition and permanent protection of the Shoshone Water Rights through a $40 million federal award, helping secure historic Colorado River flows and strengthen water security throughout Western Colorado and the Colorado River Basin.
Status: Federal funding awarded by the U.S. Department of the Interior
Date Signed: May 22, 2026