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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Governor Mark Gordon, Wyoming and Governor Spencer Cox, Utah Attend Historic Meeting To Discuss Colorado River Compact, Encouraged by Results
SALT LAKE CITY/CHEYENNE, Wyo. - Jan. 30, 2026 -Governors Mark Gordon (R-WY) and Spencer Cox (R-UT) attended a historic meeting today in Washington D.C., with governors and representatives of seven Western states to discuss the Colorado River Compact.
"I want to thank Secretary Burgum for hosting today’s historic and productive meeting,” said Governor Cox. “It was important to convene the Governors, and I thank them for the constructive conversation. I leave today hopeful that we’ll avoid the path of litigation. No one wins going down that path. Utah has already contributed significant resources to the long-term sustainability of the Colorado River, and we remain part of the coalition of the willing. I still have faith that an agreement can be reached. Our chief negotiators now have their marching orders: make a deal and make it soon.”
It was an informative meeting that gave each governor an opportunity to explain their position with respect to the Colorado River Basin issue. All acknowledged that a mutual agreement is preferable to prolonged litigation. Importantly, the governors will continue to seek an agreement that helps provide certainty to the entire basin for the short and long term, including as it relates to federal funding of water projects.
“I am wholeheartedly encouraged by our conversation today and believe there is a definitive path outlined today,” Governor Gordon said. “There is still much work to be done before ink meets paper, but I am confident that Wyoming water users should feel encouraged as we move forward in good faith negotiations. I deeply appreciate the leadership shown by Secretary Burgum and the other Colorado River Basin States’ Governors in approaching this serious situation with the respect and resolution it deserves.”
For more information:
Amy Edmonds, Communications Director, Governor Gordon [email protected]
Julia Pappas, Deputy Communications Director, Governor Cox [email protected]
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