The Colorado River has flowed from source to sea for 6 million years. It is old. Older than most things. And people have lived in relationship with the river for 1000's of years. Their descendants still call the river home. Yet today the river no longer reaches its historical terminus, the Sea of Cortez. This new reality coincides with the arrival of Anglo settlers and is a direct result of a series of policies that have affected where the river is allowed to flow and where the river is allowed to die. This episode dives into that story. Part 1 of a 6-part series.

For photos of the Nankoweap Granaries and of Eli Reich dressed as Vishnu Schist for Halloween, follow the pod on Instagram @lifeblood.pod

Written, hosted, and produced by Evelyn Baher-Murphy

This episode of Lifeblood was made possible by support from the Hulbert Center for Southwest Studies, the Colorado College Journalism Institute, the Utah Rivers Council, Colorado River and Trail Expeditions, and Outdoor Odysseys Sea Kayaking