Last Wild River in the Colorado Basin Faces Growing Demand and Climate Pressure

A five-day rafting trip in mid-May 2026 brought scientists, policymakers, and tribal representatives to the Yampa River to witness its condition and discuss its future.

• In mid-May 2026, about 30 people including scientists, policymakers, tribal representatives, and advocates completed a five-day rafting trip on the Yampa River in Dinosaur National Monument.
• Flows in the Yampa River have declined by roughly a quarter over the past century, and the region recorded its warmest winter on record this year.
• The Yampa is the last river in the Colorado River basin still following its natural cycle, but demand from agriculture, communities, and industry continues to increase.
• Nate Pearson, assistant director for water policy for Colorado’s Department of Natural Resources, said watershed health is directly correlated with the health of faraway communities.