The primary source of water for Lake Mead is the Colorado River, which supplies the reservoir through the Hoover Dam.

Lake Mead, one of the largest reservoirs in the U.S., relies on the Colorado River as its primary source of water. The river feeds into Lake Mead through the Hoover Dam, which was built to control flooding, generate hydroelectric power, and provide water to the southwestern U.S. This vital water source supports not only Lake Mead but also millions of people in surrounding states like Arizona, Nevada, and California. The Colorado River’s water is crucial for agriculture, drinking water, and recreation in the region. However, overuse and droughts are stressing the river, raising concerns about the lake's future water levels.