Tribes work to sustain Lake Mead water levels, push for federal water bill passage
Tribal nations have bolstered Lake Mead's water supply through conservation deals and now hope Congress approves a $5 billion water rights settlement before the administration changes.
Jeniffer Solis reports for Nevada Current.
In short:
- Since 2021, tribes have voluntarily conserved Lake Mead water, securing federal payments and stabilizing supply for 25 million people.
- Recent agreements will conserve 43,000 acre-feet of water; tribes receive millions in federal funds for water-saving efforts and infrastructure.
- Tribes are urging Congress to pass a $5 billion water rights settlement for Northeastern Arizona tribes before the next administration takes office.
Key quote:
“We’ve got a Congress that’s willing, that’s excited. All we gotta do is come to consensus, and then we put it in Congress’s hands. It would be a great celebration to see President Biden sign off on that within the next couple of weeks.”
— Buu Nygren, Navajo Nation president
Why this matters:
Tribes are key players in addressing the Colorado River water crisis, affecting millions in the Southwest. If the settlement bill stalls, tribes may face renewed challenges securing water rights under a new administration.
