October 19, 2026 3:51 pm
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
October 19, 2026 3:51 pm
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
According to CBS 5 Arizona’s Family, Arizona could face deeper Colorado River water cuts following missed negotiation deadlines, raising concerns about future water supply stability across the state. Officials say ongoing drought and reduced reservoir levels continue to challenge long-term planning efforts. These developments may lead to increased federal involvement in river management decisions. For CRIT, potential cutbacks are important because federal allocation decisions directly influence how tribal water rights are maintained and protected.
Source: CBS 5 Arizona’s Family — https://www.azfamily.com/2026/02/17/arizona-faces-major-colorado-river-water-cuts-deadline-passes/
According to the Colorado Sun, new forecasts suggest Lake Powell could reach critically low levels that threaten hydropower production and water deliveries if drought conditions persist. Reservoir storage plays a central role in determining how water is distributed across the Colorado River Basin. Experts say ongoing climate pressures and declining inflows continue to complicate long-term planning. For CRIT, reservoir conditions remain important because federal operational decisions tied to storage levels directly affect how tribal water allocations are managed and protected.
Source: Colorado Sun — https://coloradosun.com/2026/02/18/lake-powell-forecast-critical-lows-federal-study/
According to AZPM News, Colorado River basin states missed another federal deadline to reach agreement on future water reductions, increasing the likelihood of additional cutbacks across the Southwest. Officials warn that continued drought and declining reservoir levels could force tougher decisions about water allocation in the coming years. The missed deadline highlights growing uncertainty about long-term river management. For CRIT, potential water reductions and federal policy decisions directly influence how tribal water rights are protected and incorporated into basin planning.
Source: AZPM News — https://news.azpm.org/s/102728-arizona-and-western-states-miss-colorado-river-water-deadline-as-cuts-loom/
According to Newsweek, Lake Powell water levels could drop to critical levels sooner than expected, raising concerns about hydropower production and water deliveries across the Colorado River Basin. Experts say continued drought, reduced snowpack, and high demand are contributing to declining reservoir storage. These conditions add urgency to ongoing negotiations about future river operations. For CRIT, reservoir levels are important because federal decisions tied to storage conditions directly affect how tribal water allocations are managed and sustained.
Source: Newsweek — https://www.newsweek.com/lake-powell-water-could-drop-to-critical-levels-sooner-than-expected-11531274
According to Pinal Central, the Gila River Indian Community expressed concern over the lack of agreement among Colorado River basin states, noting the importance of tribal voices in ongoing water negotiations. Tribal leaders emphasized the need for sustainable solutions that recognize existing water rights while addressing long-term drought conditions. The statement highlights growing awareness of tribal participation in basin discussions. For CRIT, tribal engagement in Colorado River negotiations is significant because it reinforces the importance of protecting tribal sovereignty and water rights across the region.
Source: Pinal Central — https://www.pinalcentral.com/sacaton_central/gric-laments-lack-of-deal-over-colorado-river-water/article_cb91f461-07de-4f88-8d70-c3dec3b96c67.html
A recent statement from Colorado River Commissioner JB Hamby says California and other Lower Basin states have been working with federal officials and neighboring states to develop new long-term operating rules for the Colorado River after 2026. He noted that the original 1922 Colorado River Compact was based on water supply estimates that no longer match today’s reality, as river flows have declined over the past 25 years while demand continues to grow.
According to the statement, California, Arizona, and Nevada committed to major conservation efforts in recent years and have already exceeded planned water savings meant to stabilize Lake Mead and Lake Powell. However, disagreements remain between Upper Basin and Lower Basin states about how future reductions should be shared, and negotiators have not yet reached a final agreement.
For CRIT, these ongoing negotiations are important because federal Colorado River policies, interstate agreements, and conservation requirements directly influence how tribal water rights are protected, managed, and incorporated into long-term river planning that affects the entire region.
Source: https://crb.ca.gov/2026/02/statement-from-jb-hamby-colorado-river-commissioner-for-california/
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
Article written by CRIT Media Reporter Ariana Romero
The young men of the Parker Broncs football team have shown strength, endurance, and determination throughout an incredible season. The Broncs remain undefeated at 8-0, but tonight, there is even more on the line.
Parker will take on Arizona Lutheran Academy in a battle for the 2A Metro 2 region title. Both teams enter the matchup undefeated in region play, with the Broncs looking to protect their perfect season in their final home game of the regular season.
Tonight will also mark Senior Night, giving the Parker community an opportunity to recognize the seniors who will take their home field one more time. After years of practices, games, and representing Parker High School, the seniors have a chance to close out their final home game with a region title on the line.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Joe Bush Stadium, and the Broncs are hoping to see the community pack the stands, get loud, and bring the energy.
Hard Work, Brotherhood, and One Goal
Being undefeated means a lot to this group of young men. The work behind their 8-0 record started long before Friday nights under the lights. Players trained through Parker’s extreme heat, spent hours lifting weights and conditioning, and continued working in the classroom to maintain the grades needed to compete.
During interviews with CRIT Media, one thing became clear: this is a TEAM.
When asked to describe their teammates and what has made this season special, the players gave many of the same answers: brotherhood, family, and best friends. Their similar responses reflected the bond they have built through long practices, workouts, wins, and challenges together.
That bond was just as noticeable while speaking with the team. The players were humble, polite, and proud to be Parker Broncs. Each showed respect for his teammates, coaches, and the game. While an undefeated record is something to celebrate, their focus remains on what is still ahead.
Their goal for the season is simple: keep winning and bring home the trophy. (more…)
Chairwoman Flores says CRIT And Tribal Governments must have a meaningful voice in decisions affecting the Colorado River and future generations
(SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.) Colorado River Indian Tribes leaders carried a message rooted in the Reservation’s past, present and future to the Ten Tribes Partnership meeting Wednesday: CRIT’s water rights must be protected, and tribal governments must have a meaningful voice in decisions shaping the Colorado River.
CRIT Chairwoman Amelia Flores chaired the October 14 meeting, joined on site by Tribal Councilmember Tommy Drennan. CRIT water attorney John Bezdek and other CRIT Tribal Council members participated remotely. CRIT’s presentation outlined the legal protections surrounding CRIT’s water rights and concerns about federal proposals that could threaten them.
With river levels declining and demand continuing to grow, Flores said tribal governments cannot remain on the sidelines as decisions are made about how the Colorado River is managed.
“We need to be included. We have the solutions,” Flores told representatives of the other tribes.
She said tribal leaders have spent years fighting for a meaningful role in Colorado River negotiations—decisions with direct consequences for CRIT lands, resources and future generations.
“I think we got a small corner of the room,” Flores said. “We’re allowed in, but yet we still are not at the table.”
Bezdek’s presentation focused on CRIT’s longstanding water rights, which were recognized by the U.S. Supreme Court in the landmark Arizona v. California decision in 1963 and the subsequent 1964 decree.
Those rights date to the establishment of the Colorado River Indian Reservation in 1865, predating Arizona statehood and the creation of the Bureau of Reclamation.
“Because at CRIT, we are not a contractor, our water rights predate the Bureau of Reclamation,” Bezdek said.
He explained that CRIT’s water rights are not subject to evaporation and transportation losses that can apply to other Colorado River water users.
At the center of CRIT’s concern are Bureau of Reclamation proposals to spread shortages proportionally among water users, regardless of their established rights. Bezdek said those “pro rata” reductions could erode the priority system that protects senior water rights, including CRIT’s.
Bezdek said the Bureau of Reclamation has included the possibility of proportional reductions in two recent environmental reviews, despite objections from CRIT.
He argued that such reductions would violate the Supreme Court decree, undermine the Winters doctrine protecting federally reserved tribal water rights and raise constitutional concerns.
“It would basically just write it out of existence,” Bezdek said of the Winters doctrine, warning against abandoning the priority system during water shortages.
He said CRIT successfully pushed back against the latest proposal, resulting in federal acknowledgment that water shortages would be handled through voluntary agreements or, absent such agreements, the existing priority system.
Still, Bezdek said the repeated appearance of proportional reductions in federal planning documents is reason for concern.
“We continue to remain vigilant because we believe this will come back again,” Bezdek said.
He emphasized that the issue extends well beyond CRIT.
“This is not just a CRIT issue. This is not just a five tribes issue. This is every tribe,” he said.
For CRIT, protecting its water rights is only part of the challenge. The Tribes’ ability to put that water to use on the Reservation also depends on the aging Colorado River Indian Irrigation Project, which serves tribal agricultural lands in Arizona.
Authorized in 1867, it is the oldest Indian irrigation project in the United States. Bezdek said years of inadequate federal funding have left the system in serious disrepair, with irrigation efficiency estimated at approximately 56% to 58%, according to his presentation.
He explained that water lost through the inefficient system eventually returns to the Colorado River, benefiting other water users while limiting CRIT’s ability to fully use its entitlement.
“They were the beneficiaries of the Bureau of Indian Affairs chronically underfunding the project,” Bezdek said, referring to other water users.
CRIT has received a Bureau of Reclamation grant to study what it would take to modernize the irrigation system to 21st-century standards. (more…)
