Humboldt River Region

Working Together on the Humboldt 

The Humboldt River stretches across much of northern Nevada and is vital to the communities and industries that rely on it. But decades of groundwater pumping have reduced river flows, creating growing conflicts with existing water rights under the Humboldt Decree. These conflicts are not  just theoretical — they are happening now.

NDWR recognizes this is a serious challenge, but also sees an opportunity to addressed it before conditions worsen. NDWR is cooperating with farmers, ranchers, local leaders, businesses, and residents to find solutions that reduce conflict, protect water rights, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Humboldt River system.

Why This Matters 

Water in the Humboldt River Basin is over-allocated. This means there are more rights to water than the river and aquifers can reliably provide.  Groundwater pumping near the river reduces river flows, creating tension between surface water right holders and groundwater users. 

Without action, these conflicts could lead to strict curtailment by priority — where some water users must reduce or stop pumping.  To avoid this outcome and minimize economic impacts, alternative solutions must be explored and given a chance to succeed

Listening to the Community

In 2023 and 2024, NDWR held workshops and listening sessions across the region. Farmers, conservation groups, industry, and local governments shared their concerns and proposed solutions. These efforts produced 19 potential strategies for managing the Humboldt River — ranging from conservation programs and water banking to local management and legislative changes. Each idea was reviewed for how practical it would be to implement, who has the authority to act, and what the benefits and challenges might be. To carry this work forward, NDWR established the Humboldt River Stakeholder Working Group.

Humboldt River Stakeholder Working Group

The Humboldt River Stakeholder Working Group grew directly out of the ideas and momentum from the workshops, ensuring that community perspectives continue to shape next steps. Members, nominated by their peers, represent agriculture, local government, industry, conservation, and technical experts.

The group meets regularly to: 

  • Build a shared understanding of the science and data. 
  • Evaluate the 19 strategies and consider new ideas. 
  • Recommend approaches that could reduce conflict and help avoid curtailment.

Where We Are Now 

NDWR is preparing a Draft Curtailment Order for public review. While curtailment is the direct tool available to NDWR under state law, the working group and broader public input are helping identify alternative, community-led solutions that align with water law principals. These strategies may include local water management programs, voluntary conservation, or new policy options that require legislative or local action. 

How You Can Get Involved 

  • Stay Informed: All meeting materials, updates, and background information are posted here on our website. 
  • Participate: Attend public meetings and workshops, or email comments. 
  • Share Your Voice: Local leadership and public engagement are essential. Sustainable solutions will only succeed if they are built and supported by the community. 
Email Public Comment

Questions:

  • Contact: Mr. Kelly McGowan, Deputy Administrator 
  • Call: 775-684-2872

Other Resources: