Tracking Water Loss in the Colorado River | Reno News

Reno News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 28, 2026 · 1m

Scientists are deploying new floating sensors on key Colorado River reservoirs to precisely track evaporation — a major hidden drain on dwindling water supplies. By measuring air temperature, humidity, wind, and water temperature directly on the surface, researchers aim to replace outdated shore-based estimates with real-time, accurate data. Combined with satellite imagery, this ground-truthing effort will sharpen water budget models and inform smarter, science-backed decisions as federal agencies draft new allocation rules. Led by DRI, the Upper Colorado River Commission, and the Bureau of…