The Colorado River is a 1,400-mile, life-sustaining artery for the American West – supplying water for seven states while generating hydroelectric power for millions. Experts tell NBC News’ Steve Patterson that the river’s power is shrinking, thanks to heavy demand, combined with rapid climate change and a decades-long megadrought. Steve gets exclusive access inside the Glen Canyon Dam as the crisis leads to historic water rationing. Levels at Lake Powell and higher water temperatures are changing the ecosystem inside the Grand Canyon.

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