Western U.S. states reliant on the Colorado River have failed to reach a water conservation agreement by the federal deadline, raising concerns about water management and conservation efforts in the region. Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs expressed frustration, stating that headwater states are not committed to conservation. As negotiations stall and critical deadlines pass, experts warn that significant cuts to water usage may be necessary, particularly for states like Utah. The Biden administration is under pressure to intervene and facilitate a resolution, while a bipartisan call to action has been issued by state leaders. The situation is compounded by the shrinking river and the looming threat of federal mandates if an agreement is not reached soon.