The Lower Basin States’ Alternative for Post-2026 Operations includes two major concepts:

• Maximum system contents – System contents are based on the volume in seven major reservoirs that is available for release, in millions of acre-feet (MAF).
• Reduction determination – Reductions are based on the available system contents, as follows:
  • Initial Reduction Zone (69% – 58%): Reduction to Lower Basin water uses increasing from 0 to 1.5 MAF
  • Static Reduction Zone (58% – 38%): Consistent 1.5 MAF reduction to Lower Basin water uses
  • Basinwide Reduction Zone (38% – 23%): Additional reductions to protect the system, increasing from 1.5 MAF to 3.9 MAF
  • Maximum Reduction Zone (23% and below): Consistent 3.9 MAF reduction