West

Stenehjem said Friday he thought the proposal had languished but attorneys general recently learned that it was still being reviewed.

But there's no guarantee those programs will continue indefinitely, Webster said.

That's up from 8 in 10 who said the same thing in September.

The practice might gain better acceptance in the West if people see its potential to improve big game habitat, she said.

Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming and Mexico are affected.

The agreement runs through 2026.

The states want congressional approval by April 22 so that Mexico also will contribute water starting next year.

A formal announcement is expected Friday.

The Coachella Valley Water District board joined other California water managers in approving in-state agreements earlier this month.

For the state, the message is as clear as its skull-and-crossbones signs: Stay out and stay alive.