September 12, 2026 1:53 am
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
September 12, 2026 1:53 am
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
CDO HIGHER EDUCATION PROGRAM
2026-2027 HE Application
CDO ADULT VOCATIONAL TRAINING PROGRAM
2026-2027 AVT Application
CDO Youth Services (YS) PROGRAM
CDO YOUTH SERVICES APPLICATION
Computer Assistance Program
COMPUTER PROGRAM APPLICATION
The Colorado River Indian Tribes is seeking applicants to fill a number of Tribal Board, Committee, and Commission vacancies. Applications are open until filled. Applications may be picked up at the Tribal Executive Offices or you can download the PDF’s here.
May 1st CommitteeBoard Member Application
Completed applications may be emailed to b.c@crit-nsn.go or dropped off at the Executive Offices.
Applicants must be CRIT Tribal Members, at least 21 years old, reside on or within the exterior boundaries of the reservation, and meet all board eligibility requirements.
Additional paperwork may be required depending on the board or committee.
February 14, 2026
According to the U.S. Department of the Interior, federal officials are moving forward with new operating guidelines for the Colorado River even though the seven basin states have not yet reached full agreement. The updated rules, expected by October 2026, are meant to provide stability for water deliveries, power generation, and long-term management as drought conditions and declining inflows continue to strain the river system. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said discussions with states, Tribal Nations, and Mexico are ongoing, but federal action is needed to ensure future reliability of the river.
The Colorado River supplies water to about 40 million people, supports millions of acres of farmland, generates hydropower, and serves 30 Tribal Nations, making it one of the most important water sources in the West. Federal officials are currently accepting public comments on the draft environmental review that will guide future reservoir operations.
For CRIT, these federal guidelines are important because Colorado River management decisions directly affect how tribal water rights are protected, how water is allocated in the Lower Basin, and how long-term planning supports the Tribe’s water security, economy, and future generations.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior / Bureau of Reclamation press release
According to Arizona Mirror, Colorado River negotiations hit a setback as Lower Basin states, including Arizona, criticized Upper Basin states for resisting deeper water conservation commitments. Officials say ongoing drought conditions and declining reservoir levels are increasing pressure to finalize new operating rules before current guidelines expire. The disagreement highlights continuing tension over how water reductions should be shared across the basin. For CRIT, these negotiations are important because interstate agreements and federal management decisions directly influence how tribal water rights are protected and incorporated into long-term river planning.
Source: Arizona Mirror — https://azmirror.com/2026/02/13/arizona-blasts-upper-basin-states-for-refusing-cuts-as-colorado-river-talks-fail/
According to the Arizona Department of Water Resources, state officials say they will continue protecting Arizona’s Colorado River resources even after basin states failed to reach a consensus ahead of the federal deadline. Leaders emphasized ongoing drought challenges and the need for continued negotiations to maintain stability for water users across the region. State agencies say collaboration with federal partners and neighboring states remains essential moving forward. For CRIT, continued state and federal coordination is significant because long-term Colorado River policies directly affect how tribal water rights are recognized and sustained.
Source: ADWR Statement — https://azwaternews.com/2026/02/13/021326_statement/
According to USA Today, Colorado River negotiations approached a critical deadline without a final agreement, reflecting ongoing disputes over how to manage shrinking water supplies across the Southwest. Experts say declining snowpack, persistent drought, and competing demands are making consensus more difficult as states prepare for new post-2026 operating guidelines. Federal involvement may increase if states cannot reach agreement. For CRIT, these developments matter because federal river management decisions play a key role in protecting tribal water rights and ensuring long-term water security.
Source: USA Today — https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2026/02/13/colorado-river-deal-deadline/88658491007/
According to Arizona Water News, Arizona water leaders recently received a briefing from the governor’s office, the Arizona Department of Water Resources, and the Central Arizona Project on ongoing Colorado River negotiations as a federal deadline approaches. Officials discussed current drought conditions, possible future cutbacks, and the importance of coordinated state and federal planning to stabilize river supplies. The briefing highlights continued uncertainty as states work toward new post-2026 operating guidelines for the river. For CRIT, these negotiations are important because federal and interstate decisions on Colorado River management directly influence how tribal water rights are protected and incorporated into long-term planning.
Source: Arizona Water News — https://www.azwater.gov/news/articles/2026-02-11
According to KJZZ News, Colorado River basin states are facing a federal deadline to reach an agreement on future water management rules, with uncertainty remaining about whether consensus can be reached in time. Experts say possible outcomes range from short-term agreements to federal intervention if negotiations stall, reflecting ongoing tension between Upper Basin and Lower Basin states. Continued drought and competing water demands have made long-term planning increasingly complex. For CRIT, these negotiations matter because federal decisions about river operations directly affect how tribal water rights are recognized and sustained within the broader basin framework.
Source: KJZZ News — https://www.kjzz.org/the-show/2026-02-12/colorado-river-states-are-staring-down-a-feb-14-deadline-heres-what-might-happen-next
According to the Lake Powell Chronicle, federal officials have outlined a post-2026 framework aimed at preventing further decline of the Colorado River system as drought pressures continue. The proposed blueprint focuses on conservation strategies, operational adjustments, and coordinated planning among basin states to stabilize reservoir levels and long-term water supplies. These discussions reflect ongoing efforts to balance environmental conditions, population growth, and water demand across the Southwest. For CRIT, long-term federal planning for the Colorado River is significant because these policies help shape how tribal water rights are protected and managed for future generations.
Source: Lake Powell Chronicle — https://lakepowellchronicle.com/stories/feds-unveil-post-2026-blueprint-to-avert-colorado-river-collapse,99303
According to ABC 15 Arizona, researchers at Arizona State University are developing technology that converts industrial wastewater into ultra-pure water, potentially expanding future water reuse options in the Southwest. Scientists say advanced treatment methods could help supplement limited freshwater supplies while supporting growing populations and industries. Water recycling and reuse are increasingly discussed as part of long-term drought resilience strategies. For CRIT, emerging water reuse technologies may play a role in future regional water planning as tribes, states, and federal agencies work to protect limited Colorado River resources.
Source: ABC 15 Arizona — https://www.abc15.com/news/local-news/asu-turns-industrial-wastewater-into-ultra-pure-water
According to KJZZ News, potential Colorado River cutbacks could increase operating costs for Arizona water utilities and even affect their credit ratings, which utilities rely on to fund infrastructure projects. Analysts say uncertainty around long-term river supplies makes financial planning more difficult and could raise costs tied to water treatment, delivery, and conservation investments. These financial ripple effects show how water shortages extend beyond environmental concerns into economic stability across the region. For CRIT, shifts in regional water costs and infrastructure planning can influence broader river management decisions that ultimately affect how tribal water rights are maintained and utilized.
Source: KJZZ News — https://www.kjzz.org/the-show/2026-02-11/colorado-river-cuts-could-increase-arizona-utilities-costs-and-affect-their-credit-ratings
According to the Sierra Vista Herald Review, basin states are facing an approaching deadline to agree on new Colorado River management guidelines before current rules expire. Ongoing disagreements between Upper Basin and Lower Basin states, combined with continued drought pressures, have slowed negotiations and raised concerns about potential legal disputes if a consensus is not reached. Federal oversight remains a key factor in shaping how future allocations will be determined. For CRIT, these negotiations are important because federal river management decisions directly affect how tribal water rights are recognized, protected, and incorporated into long-term basin planning.
Source: Sierra Vista Herald Review — https://www.myheraldreview.com/news/state/deadline-approaches-for-colorado-river-negotiations/article_5dd6fa1d-eed1-4d98-82f2-4a754853da3c.html
According to KTNV Channel 13 News in Las Vegas, low snowpack levels across the Mountain West are raising concerns about water supplies for Southern Nevada and the broader Colorado River Basin. Snowpack acts as a natural reservoir that feeds rivers and storage lakes during spring runoff, so below-average levels can reduce future water availability and increase pressure on already stressed reservoirs. Experts say continued dry conditions could complicate long-term water planning across the Southwest. For CRIT, declining snowpack is significant because reduced river flows can influence future allocation decisions and federal management strategies affecting tribal water resources.
Source: KTNV News — https://www.ktnv.com/news/why-low-snowpack-levels-raising-alarms-for-southern-nevada-water-supply
According to Newsweek, new data showing concerning water levels at Lake Powell is adding to ongoing worries about the long-term stability of the Colorado River system. Reservoir levels play a critical role in determining water deliveries, hydropower production, and shortage declarations throughout the Southwest. Continued drought conditions combined with sustained demand have kept pressure on the basin’s major storage systems. For CRIT, reservoir conditions remain important because federal water management decisions tied to storage levels directly affect how tribal water allocations are managed and protected.
Source: Newsweek — https://www.newsweek.com/lake-powell-water-levels-as-concerning-data-revealed-11500468
According to the Center for Colorado River Studies at Utah State University, Lake Powell and Lake Mead have recently shown differing storage trends, reflecting the complexity of managing water across the Colorado River system. Researchers say reservoir operations, inflows, releases, and ongoing drought conditions all contribute to shifting water levels that can affect supply planning throughout the basin. Understanding how these reservoirs interact is key to long-term river management decisions. For CRIT, these reservoir dynamics matter because federal operational decisions tied to storage levels directly influence how Colorado River water is allocated and protected for tribal communities.
Source: Center for Colorado River Studies — https://qanr.usu.edu/coloradoriver/news/blog-2026-2-9
According to KJZZ News, the Colorado River Basin is experiencing one of its driest winters in decades, with snowpack levels far below average in key areas that supply water to Lake Powell and Lake Mead. Scientists warn that reduced snowpack could lead to lower river flows this year, increasing pressure on already strained reservoirs and complicating ongoing negotiations over long-term water management. Because snowpack acts as the primary natural storage system for the river, weaker winters often translate into tighter water supplies downstream. For CRIT, these conditions matter because reduced river flows can influence future allocation decisions, federal management strategies, and long-term planning for tribal water resources.
Source: KJZZ News — https://www.kjzz.org/science/2026-02-09/the-colorado-river-is-having-its-driest-winter-in-decades
According to ABC News, record-low snowpack across much of the western United States is raising concerns about potential water shortages, wildfire risks, and continued stress on major river systems including the Colorado River. Experts say warmer temperatures and shifting precipitation patterns are reducing snow accumulation that normally feeds reservoirs during spring runoff. These trends could influence future water allocation planning as states and federal agencies work toward updated river management strategies. For CRIT, changes in snowpack levels matter because they directly affect Colorado River flows that shape long-term water availability and policy decisions impacting tribal communities.
Source: ABC News — https://abcnews.com/US/wireStory/record-snow-drought-western-us-raises-concern-spring-130016613
According to the San Mateo Daily Journal, a key deadline is approaching for Colorado River basin states to reach an agreement on new water management rules before current guidelines expire. Ongoing disagreements between upper and lower basin states, combined with persistent drought conditions, have slowed progress and increased concerns about potential legal disputes if consensus is not reached. Federal oversight plays a major role in shaping these negotiations, particularly for the Lower Basin where water allocations are closely regulated. For CRIT, these negotiations are significant because future federal river management decisions directly affect how tribal water rights are recognized, protected, and incorporated into basin planning.
Source: San Mateo Daily Journal — https://www.djournal.com/news/national/deadline-approaches-for-colorado-river-negotiations/article_5a129b32-06cb-50c0-8945-5186943db1db.html
According to KJZZ News, a new groundwater monitoring tool developed in Nevada is helping scientists better understand how groundwater pumping affects habitats, water availability, and long-term sustainability across the Mountain West. Researchers say improved data can support more informed water management decisions as communities balance development, agriculture, and environmental needs. Groundwater use is increasingly important as surface water supplies face ongoing pressure from drought and climate variability. For CRIT, regional groundwater management discussions matter because they influence broader basin water planning and long-term strategies for protecting tribal water resources.
Source: KJZZ News — https://www.kjzz.org/science/2026-02-08/a-nevada-groundwater-tool-highlights-strained-habitats-with-lessons-for-the-mountain-west
According to Reuters, the Colorado River has been identified as the most endangered river in the United States due to ongoing drought, rising demand, and increasing pressure on its limited water supplies. Experts say declining reservoir levels, climate impacts, and competing state interests continue to challenge long-term sustainability across the basin. The designation highlights growing national attention on the need for cooperative water management and conservation efforts. For CRIT, this recognition underscores the importance of protecting tribal water rights as regional policies evolve to address long-term river stability.
According to KJZZ News, Colorado River negotiators may be leaning toward a short-term agreement as states remain divided on a long-term plan for managing the river before current operating rules expire. Ongoing drought, climate pressures, and disagreements between Upper Basin and Lower Basin states have stalled progress, and some officials believe a temporary deal could help avoid a major court battle while allowing more time for negotiations. Is a five-year deal better than no deal? As Nevada water negotiator John Entsminger noted, “If the alternative is litigation… then a five-year deal starts pretty good,” reflecting concerns that legal disputes could complicate future water management even further. For CRIT, these discussions remain important because federal river management decisions, compact negotiations, and potential legal outcomes directly affect how tribal water rights are protected, recognized, and sustained for future generations.
According to AZ Free News, the Arizona House has approved an additional $1 million for the state’s Colorado River litigation fund, signaling growing concern that water allocation disputes could end up in court as negotiations over future river management continue. State leaders say the funding is meant to ensure Arizona is prepared to defend its interests if talks between basin states break down, reflecting increasing tension as drought, population growth, and competing demands strain the river system. Legal disputes have historically shaped water distribution in the Lower Basin, including the Arizona v. California Supreme Court decision that affirmed tribal water rights. For CRIT, continued legal developments around Colorado River allocations are significant because court decisions often influence how tribal water rights are protected, enforced, and recognized in future negotiations.
According to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, ongoing drought conditions and limited snowpack are increasing pressure on Colorado River water supplies, raising concerns that the basin may face even tighter shortages in the near future. Experts note that declining reservoir levels and continued demand across the Southwest make it harder to stabilize the system, especially as negotiations continue over future operating rules. Some officials warn that without significant conservation or improved conditions, legal disputes between basin states could become more likely. For CRIT, ongoing shortage risks matter because long-term river stability and federal allocation decisions directly influence how tribal water rights are protected and exercised.
According to Arizona Capitol Times, a judge is reviewing whether agricultural groundwater pumping by Fondomonte in western Arizona constitutes a public nuisance, a case that could shape future groundwater regulation statewide. The lawsuit argues that heavy pumping may be affecting nearby wells and water sustainability, highlighting ongoing tensions between agriculture, development, and long-term water conservation. Outcomes from cases like this can influence how groundwater use is monitored and regulated across Arizona. For CRIT, groundwater policy discussions are important because regional water management decisions can affect broader basin planning and long-term protection of tribal water resources.
According to Nevada Current, growing data center development across the Southwest is increasing demand for both water and power, raising concerns among regulators and rural communities about sustainability. Large technology facilities often require significant cooling resources, prompting discussions about infrastructure planning, water efficiency, and future resource allocation. As population growth and technology expansion continue, water demand from emerging industries is becoming part of broader basin conversations. For CRIT, rising industrial water demand across the region highlights the importance of protecting tribal water rights and ensuring long-term sustainability of Colorado River resources.
Article written by CRIT Media Reporter Ariana Romero
When people talk about climate change, it can sound political or exaggerated, but at its core, it’s about environmental changes we can measure over time. Scientists like Brad Udall, who studies long-term weather patterns, have found that the Earth’s average temperature has risen slightly over the past century, mostly because of how people consume energy. When coal, gas, or oil is burned, it releases gases that trap more heat in the atmosphere, like a blanket wrapped around the planet. Despite whether someone believes it is man-made or not, climate change forces us to pay attention, and develop methods to protect the land and water that sustain us.
On Monday, September 29th, Udall, an internationally recognized scientist on water and climate change from Colorado State University, visited the Colorado River Indian Reservation to share his latest findings on the Colorado River. He spoke with Tribal leaders about what the future may hold.
Udall is known for his research on the connection between climate change and river systems in the American West. He has spent decades studying how heat, drought, and rainfall affect water levels, especially in the Colorado River Basin. Additionally, Udall co-wrote parts of the U.S. National Climate Assessment, and has testified before the United States Congress about the effects of climate change on western water supplies. His work focuses on researching solutions that balance the needs of people, agriculture, and the environment.
When Udall met with Tribal leadership at the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) Council Chambers, he was greeted by Chairwoman Amelia Flores, Councilwoman Vanessa Welch, CRIT Attorney General Rebecca Loudbear, CRIT Water Resources Director Dillion Esquerra, CRIT Realty Commercial Manager Herman “TJ” Lafoon Jr., and CRIT Lead Water Attorney John Bezdek.
During his presentation, Udall explained that flows in the Colorado River have dropped about 20% since the year 2000, and that precipitation – the rain and snow that feed the river – is also down about 20%. He said several studies have found that this isn’t just a temporary drought, but a long-term trend he believes is caused largely by human-driven climate change. Temperatures are rising across the Southwest, and according to Udall, “We are now on target for 3 degrees Celsius of warming by the year 2100.” Udall reiterated that his studies show this increase in temperatures is based on an average of estimates, and that temperatures in certain areas, including the desert southwest, could see higher increases.
Udall described the situation as serious and with little optimism. He shared that some scientists are exploring ideas like adding sulfur dioxide to the atmosphere to help cool the planet, though he said most researchers are cautious about such steps because they involve more human interference in nature. “It’s not a perfect solution,” he explained, “but it shows how far people are thinking about how to slow down the warming.” Councilwoman Vanessa Welsh was thankful for Udall’s frankness about the situation stating, “Many of us do know this, but we don’t hear it very often…We intend to protect the river as one of our own.” (more…)
The Department of Revenue and Finance Welcomes Director
The Colorado River Indian Tribes is pleased to welcome Andrew Quillen as the new Director of the Revenue and Finance Department.
Mr. Quillen is a CRIT tribal member who was born and raised in the community. He brings both professional experience and a deep personal connection to the reservation into his new leadership role. He has worked for the Tribes for the past three years and has steadily grown within the department.
Mr. Quillen earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration with a concentration in management from the University of La Verne. Upon returning to Parker, he began his career with the Tribes as a tax examiner and revenue agent. He quickly found that the work aligned with his long-standing interest in business, compliance, and economic development.
When the former Revenue and Finance Director was elected to Tribal Council, Mr. Quillen felt it was the right time to step forward and continue the work the department had already established. His background in sales, service, and compliance has helped shape his understanding of how the department supports businesses and the community as a whole.
As a lifelong community member, Mr. Quillen understands the economic landscape of the reservation and the opportunities for growth. One of his personal goals is to see more tribal members become business owners. Being part of the reservation’s continued development is something that holds special meaning for him. (more…)
The Colorado River Indian Tribes Utilities Department has welcomed a familiar face into its leadership, naming Alex Covarrubias Jr. as the new Utilities Director.
Covarrubias is a Parker and Poston local who grew up in the community he now serves. His career in the water industry began in 2013, giving him more than a decade of hands-on and leadership experience in the field.
He started his professional journey working in Big River for three years before joining CRIT Utilities, where he served as Water Department Supervisor. During his time with the Tribe, Covarrubias gained valuable experience learning the day-to-day operations of the department and the importance of understanding the work from the ground up.
“Learning the ins and outs of the job builds character,” Covarrubias said. “I’m glad I was able to learn from the bottom.”
In 2022, he stepped away from CRIT Utilities to continue building his experience, working with the Rural Water Association of Arizona. Along with his previous roles, Covarrubias has spent years in management and believes that with a good attitude and strong work ethic, he can be an effective leader.
Returning to CRIT Utilities as Director is a full-circle moment for Covarrubias, and one he says he is excited about.
CRIT Utilities oversees essential services including water, wastewater, and solid waste for the reservation. Having spent years doing hands-on work in the field, Covarrubias believes that experience helps him better support his team. (more…)
Navajo customs find a way to heal and reignite the strength of those in suffering and spiritual pain of what lingers in their heart, their mind, their body, their soul. But here, we have a film that questions and wrestles with the idea of how we feel out, process, and learn to forgive those who’ve done harm to us for no longer. FINDING HÓZHÓ, the newest film from writer/director/producer Travis Holt Hamilton, searches for that idea from within the protagonist Secody, a man whose silent dignity masks a history of childhood trauma left behind by the violence of his father, remembered as an angry and aggressive alcoholic. Now an older man, Secody is morally stuck on how to best care for his dying/bedridden elder father; he secretly wrestles with the emotional turmoil of not knowing how to confront his abuser and comfort his dying father. We jump back and forth between the present narrative and the 60s’ period flashbacks to show how Secody had to endure his father’s drunken rage(s), while also finding peace and serenity with his warm and loving grandfather, who teaches him the traditional Diné methods of beliefs and guidance. We see a different coin side of father figures within Secody’s life – one figure showing him what pain can bring by self-destruction, and another figure teaching what beauty and tranquility can be found with personal strength and faith rooted in traditional values. (A scene plays out in flashback with the grandfather and son looking after the depressed father, drowning in sorrow about his dead wife with a bottle; the grandfather tells his grandson, “Your father is not a bad man, he’s a broken man.” They carry him back home and spend the night traditional praying over him repeatedly, showing Secody what the bonds of family and holding hope in one’s beauty does for our health & growth.)
What stood out on top of the story with the film itself, the reviewer found the production value to be a crowning achievement; in particular, the cinematography and direction seen on screen proves that the story has a backbone of visual style and gravitas of a filmmaker’s dedication to making a story based on the concept and company he keeps. Here, Hamilton finds the weight of the emotional journey in his character’s choices and reflections in facing the confrontation of familial bonds and those painful memories that we put to rest. The actors’ are all allowed to shine and breathe life into their on-screen personas’, with many of the cast having the strength to carry weight of dialogue while the main lead is left in silence of his own accord. By the end of the film (as per audience reactions at the screening), you’ll be needing the tissues to help handle the teary emotions we see in the finale of the film reinterpreting the themes of Hózhó being an internal spiritual awakening that anyone can ignite from within, from family, and from the values/beliefs we hold strong. Anyone of any generation can find something out of the story, as the reviewer recounts how much an audience engagement could be found in the Q/A section of the premiere – prompting discussions of elder’s recollections that touched on personal experiences they found identifiable through the film. It’s a beautiful film that stands as one of Hamilton’s most mature and enlightening features that showcases the humanity and culture of Diné customs and traditions. FINDING HÓZHÓ is a film that wants you to be emotionally and spiritually ready to find the light, beauty, and forgiveness to give ourselves from all the burdens of the world.
Holt Hamilton, in his steadfast devotion to furthering his filmmaking goals and working with the best talent/crews, finds solace in the audience he has acquired with his filmography. Speaking with him, you understand that the storytelling that he’s writing and formulating is based on the influences and ideas that surround him; and it’s no surprise seeing how much influence the honor and beauty of Navajo country has struck a cord with his sensibilities. We spoke with him after the screening –
CRIT MEDIA: How do you anticipate everything that you do with the challenges of filmmaking? What does the weight of this lifestyle feel like for you?
HAMILTON: “I think the start of it was of just giving myself that goal: if I had one more chance to make a movie, what would I do? Not that the other films haven’t been a passion project or something, but there’s something about like, okay, what, there’s more thought, there’s a lot more prayer into it, there’s a lot more like, okay, what do I leave with? And so I think I set, that was one thing I think that really played into it.” (more…)
TUCSON, Ariz. — The University of Arizona will host a special series of sign unveiling ceremonies on Friday, September 4, 2026, honoring the four languages of the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT): Mohave, Chemehuevi, Hopi, & Navajo. These ceremonies represent an important milestone in an ongoing campus-wide initiative to elevate the visibility, recognition, and continued presence of Indigenous languages and cultural heritage within the campus community.
The events are organized by the University of Arizona’s Office of Native American Advancement & Tribal Engagement (NAATE) in collaboration with individual academic colleges. Students, faculty, staff, tribal community members, and the general public are invited to attend the progression of ceremonies throughout the day.
The schedule for the Friday ceremonies includes:
The celebration of Indigenous culture continues into the weekend with the Native American Heritage Game on Saturday, September 5, 2026. The Arizona Wildcats will face Northern Arizona at Casino Del Sol Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 6:30 PM MST. Pre-game festivities at Bear Down Field will begin at 3:15 PM with the Bear Down Bash, featuring 18-minute cultural performances from each tribe. A traditional gift presentation will follow during the Wildcat Walk at 4:15 PM, leading up to an on-field tribal recognition ceremony during the second quarter of the football game.
For more operational schedules or to register for the unveiling events, please visit the official University of Arizona Event Page.
