The declining water levels in Lake Mead threaten water availability for millions of residents and agricultural operations in the western U.S. Additionally, the energy and water demands of data centers near the reservoir have sparked local resistance. Residents in Boulder City have opposed new data center projects, citing concerns about resource depletion, noise, and environmental impact. The prolonged drought also poses risks to power generation at major dams, such as the Hoover Dam, which relies on the reservoir's water levels.