The Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program (LCR MSCP) was created to balance the use of the Colorado River water resources with the conservation of native species and their habitats. The program works toward the recovery of species currently listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).  It also reduces the likelihood of additional species listings.  Implemented over a 50-year period, the program accommodates current water diversions and power production, and will optimize opportunities for future water and power development by providing ESA compliance through the implementation of a Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP).

The program area extends over 400 miles of the lower Colorado River from Lake Mead to the southernmost border with Mexico, and includes lakes Mead, Mohave, and Havasu, as well as the historic 100-year floodplain along the main stem of the lower Colorado River.  The HCP calls for the creation of over 8,100 acres of habitat for fish and wildlife species and the production of over 1.2 million native fish to augment existing populations. The plan will benefit at least 26 species, most of which are state or federally listed endangered, threatened, or sensitive species.

The Bureau of Reclamation is the implementing agency for the LCR MSCP.  Partnership involvement occurs primarily through the LCR MSCP Steering Committee, currently representing 57 entities, including state and Federal agencies, water and power users, municipalities, Native American tribes, conservation organizations, and other interested parties, which provides input and oversight functions in support of LCR MSCP implementation.  Program costs are evenly divided between the Federal government and non-federal partners.

Updated January 4, 2017