The Colorado River, or the "Lifeline of the Southwest," is an essential source of water for 40 million Americans in the West, including 80% of Arizonans. But thanks to climate change, it is drying up—and the effects are being felt unequally. On this first installment of our three-part series on water use in the desert, we visit a 30-year-old man whose 100-year-old family business is at risk of falling apart.

<p>The Colorado River, or the "Lifeline of the Southwest," is an essential source of water for 40 million Americans in the West, including 80% of Arizonans. But thanks to climate change, it is drying up&mdash;and the effects are being felt unequally. On this first installment of our three-part series on water use in the desert, we visit a 30-year-old man whose 100-year-old family business is at risk of falling apart.</p>

Phoenix — America's hottest and fastest-growing big city — is on the frontlines in the fight against drought, extreme heat, and wildfire. We bring you stories of how these global problems affect real Arizonans, and what is being done to solve them.  

<p>Phoenix &mdash; America's hottest and fastest-growing big city &mdash; is on the frontlines in the fight against drought, extreme heat, and wildfire. We bring you stories of how these global problems affect real Arizonans, and what is being done to solve them. &nbsp;</p>

Advertisement