September 12, 2026 8:22 am
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
September 12, 2026 8:22 am
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
July 16 reporting focused on what future Colorado River rules may need to account for: water users, reservoir levels, river health, and the cost of keeping the system operating.
KJZZ reported that environmental advocates want future Colorado River rules to leave some water for the river itself. The article focused on the Colorado River below Glen Canyon Dam, where river conditions are shaped by dam operations, reservoir levels, and releases from Lake Powell. Advocates told KJZZ that a healthier river system can also support the water supply system that cities, farms, and ecosystems depend on.
Lake Mead also remained under pressure. Water Online reported that the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is partnering with the federal government to leave water in Lake Mead. The agreement is meant to help slow the reservoir’s decline while the Basin states continue working on new river rules.
Several Nevada outlets reported that Lake Mead is expected to keep dropping. KLAS reported that the reservoir could fall nearly 33 feet by June 2028, and the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported that forecasters expect Lake Mead to continue setting record lows over the next two years. KVVU also reported that Lake Mead is nearing its all-time low as Boulder City continues to raise concerns about a proposed data center and its power demands.
Lake Powell remained a major concern as well. St. George News reported that the reservoir reached a critical threshold amid the ongoing Colorado River crisis. Low levels at Lake Powell affect hydropower generation, releases through Glen Canyon Dam, and the overall operation of the river system.
Weather added another layer of uncertainty. CAP Know Your Water News reported that a possible “Super El Niño” could bring wetter conditions to parts of the Southwest, but it does not guarantee relief for the Colorado River Basin. CAP reported that snowpack, runoff, and conditions in the Upper Basin will still determine how much water reaches Lake Powell and Lake Mead.
In the Upper Basin, Colorado water officials announced a new state-run conservation program. Aspen Journalism reported that the program will use federal funding to pay water users to voluntarily reduce use in 2027 and 2028. The program is expected to include criteria meant to avoid negative community impacts, encourage participation across sectors, and support drought resiliency. (more…)
July reporting continued to focus on how Arizona and the wider Colorado River Basin are preparing for reduced water supplies, with attention on Tribal water leadership, advanced water purification, and low reservoir levels.
Lake Powell Chronicle reported on the growing role of Tribal Nations in Arizona water policy. The article focused on how Tribal water rights, settlements, and planning are becoming more central as the state and federal government respond to long-term shortages. The reporting also reflects a broader shift across the Basin, where Tribal Nations are not only water rights holders but key governments in future river decisions.
Arizona water agencies are also looking at new supply options. AMWUA reported on advanced water purification, a process that treats recycled water to drinking-water standards. The technology is receiving more attention as cities look for options beyond traditional surface water, groundwater, and stored credits.
At the same time, Lake Powell remains under serious pressure. ABC News reported that the reservoir is nearing “dead power pool,” the elevation where water levels become too low for Glen Canyon Dam to generate hydropower. Newsweek also reported on concerns about Lake Powell and Lake Mead, including ideas being discussed by scientists and water experts as both reservoirs remain low.
John Fleck at Inkstain described the reservoir conditions as a grim Colorado River milestone. The continued decline of Lake Powell and Lake Mead shows how storage, hydropower, and future water deliveries are tied together. When the reservoirs fall, the issue is not only how much water remains but how the system can continue operating.
California water issues also remained part of the regional picture. Smart Water Magazine reported that California voters rank water among their top priorities for the next governor. While California’s water system is different from Arizona’s, the state remains part of Colorado River negotiations and shares in decisions over future Lower Basin reductions.
The July reports show several parts of the water discussion moving at once. Tribal Nations are gaining more recognition in water policy. Cities are exploring advanced purification. Lake Powell and Lake Mead remain low. States are still facing pressure to plan for a river system that can no longer support all demands in the same way.
What does this mean for CRIT?
For CRIT, the reporting on Tribal water power is directly relevant. It shows that Tribal Nations are becoming more visible in statewide and Basin-wide water decisions, especially as shortages force governments to revisit how water is managed.
CRIT’s senior Colorado River rights are a major part of that larger water policy landscape. As Arizona cities look at reuse, purification, and future water supplies, Tribal rights and Tribal governments remain central to any complete discussion about the river’s future.
The Lake Powell reporting also matters because reservoir levels affect federal operations, hydropower, and shortage planning across the Basin. CRIT’s Water Code and Water Resiliency Act help guide local water management as those conditions change, while the Personhood Resolution reflects the Tribe’s cultural and environmental connection to the Colorado River. (more…)
July reporting continued to focus on how Arizona and the wider Colorado River Basin are preparing for reduced water supplies, with attention on Tribal water leadership, advanced water purification, and low reservoir levels.
Lake Powell Chronicle reported on the growing role of Tribal Nations in Arizona water policy. The article focused on how Tribal water rights, settlements, and planning are becoming more central as the state and federal government respond to long-term shortages. The reporting also reflects a broader shift across the Basin, where Tribal Nations are not only water rights holders but key governments in future river decisions.
Arizona water agencies are also looking at new supply options. AMWUA reported on advanced water purification, a process that treats recycled water to drinking-water standards. The technology is receiving more attention as cities look for options beyond traditional surface water, groundwater, and stored credits.
At the same time, Lake Powell remains under serious pressure. ABC News reported that the reservoir is nearing “dead power pool,” the elevation where water levels become too low for Glen Canyon Dam to generate hydropower. Newsweek also reported on concerns about Lake Powell and Lake Mead, including ideas being discussed by scientists and water experts as both reservoirs remain low.
John Fleck at Inkstain described the reservoir conditions as a grim Colorado River milestone. The continued decline of Lake Powell and Lake Mead shows how storage, hydropower, and future water deliveries are tied together. When the reservoirs fall, the issue is not only how much water remains but how the system can continue operating.
California water issues also remained part of the regional picture. Smart Water Magazine reported that California voters rank water among their top priorities for the next governor. While California’s water system is different from Arizona’s, the state remains part of Colorado River negotiations and shares in decisions over future Lower Basin reductions.
The July reports show several parts of the water discussion moving at once. Tribal Nations are gaining more recognition in water policy. Cities are exploring advanced purification. Lake Powell and Lake Mead remain low. States are still facing pressure to plan for a river system that can no longer support all demands in the same way.
What does this mean for CRIT?
For CRIT, the reporting on Tribal water power is directly relevant. It shows that Tribal Nations are becoming more visible in statewide and Basin-wide water decisions, especially as shortages force governments to revisit how water is managed. (more…)
July 13 reporting showed drought pressure moving from long-term forecasts into visible impacts across Arizona and the Upper Basin.
In southern Arizona, the San Pedro River recorded zero flow at a key monitoring point near Sierra Vista. The Arizona Republic reported that the river ran dry there for only the second time in 122 years of records. The San Pedro is one of Arizona’s last free-flowing rivers, and dry conditions along the river show how drought, groundwater pumping, and heat can affect local ecosystems.
Scottsdale continued reviewing its long-term water planning. KJZZ reported that city officials are preparing for possible Colorado River cuts, including a possible large water-use ordinance. KJZZ reported that Scottsdale relies on Colorado River water for about 70% of its supply, with some parts of the city depending on it even more. The city has also purchased water credits from Harquahala Valley and uses advanced water treatment and recharge as part of its water planning.
Arizona also extended groundwater-related support in Pinal County. AZ Free News reported that state lawmakers extended Pinal groundwater fee relief and irrigation project funding through 2030. The funding is tied to agricultural water planning in a region that has already faced reductions to Colorado River supplies.
Water demand from data centers remained part of the state’s water debate. The Cool Down reported that Arizona paused data center tax breaks for three years after public concern over water and power use. The issue shows how large technology projects are becoming part of water planning as the state considers future growth.
In the Upper Basin, Colorado water groups are working to keep more water in rivers during extreme drought. Steamboat Pilot & Today reported on efforts by the Colorado Water Trust to support river flows, including work connected to the Yampa River and reservoir releases.
The Salt Lake Tribune also reported on a new study measuring how much water Flaming Gorge Reservoir loses to evaporation. That information could help water managers better understand reservoir losses as Lake Powell and other parts of the system remain under pressure. (more…)
Reports show how water concerns are reaching different parts of the West, from city conservation programs in Arizona to tribal water settlements, drought impacts, and ongoing Colorado River negotiations.
In Arizona, cities are encouraging residents to use less water. SignalsAZ reported that Surprise is offering rebates for eligible water-saving improvements. 12News reported that Scottsdale residents can also receive rebates for conservation upgrades. These programs reflect how cities are trying to reduce demand as Colorado River supplies become less reliable.
Tribal water rights remained a major issue. Navajo Times reported that the Diné water settlement has stalled after objections from Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. The settlement involves the Navajo Nation, Hopi Tribe, and San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe and is tied to water infrastructure and access in northeastern Arizona. The four Upper Basin states raised concerns about how the water could be used or leased in the future.
Drought impacts continued in Arizona. Congressman Eli Crane’s office reported that the U.S. Department of Agriculture issued drought disaster designations for several Arizona counties. Gila Valley Central reported that Graham and Greenlee counties were declared primary disaster areas because of drought. These designations can make assistance available to eligible farmers and producers.
The University of Arizona Water Resources Research Center released a toolkit for domestic well owners. The guide covers well maintenance, water quality, testing, and drought planning. It is especially relevant for rural residents who rely on private wells.
Water demand from data centers also remained part of the discussion. KTAR reported on concerns over whether data centers are draining Arizona’s water. As technology projects expand, their energy use, cooling needs, and long-term water demand are drawing more attention.
Across the West, drought pressure continued. KSL reported that experts are watching specific regions and industries facing severe drought impacts. Cowboy State Daily reported that an irrigation district in eastern Wyoming warned water could run out by early August.
Colorado River negotiations also remained unsettled. KNPR reported on where Southern Nevada stands as the current river management agreement nears expiration. KLAS reported that Colorado’s water commissioner said drought conversations remain difficult. KUTV reported that Upper and Lower Basin states failed to reach an agreement on Lake Powell.
Weather added more uncertainty. Several outlets reported rising odds of a strong El Niño. While El Niño can bring wetter conditions to some areas, it does not guarantee drought relief for the Colorado River system. Snowpack, runoff, and soil conditions will still determine how much water reaches reservoirs.
The reports show water planning happening on several fronts. Cities are offering rebates, rural residents are receiving well guidance, Arizona counties are facing drought designations, tribes are waiting on settlement progress, and Basin states are still negotiating future river rules. (more…)
Arizona cities are pressing for clearer answers on water they stored underground as the state prepares for possible Colorado River cuts.
KJZZ reported that Phoenix-area cities and the Arizona Water Banking Authority are in disagreement over how stored Colorado River water should be distributed during shortages. Since the late 1990s, excess Colorado River water has been stored underground as a backup supply. With new river rules expected and cuts likely for Central Arizona Project users, cities want to know how much water they will be allowed to recover, when it would be available, and what requirements may come with it.
The question is not just how much water exists underground. It is also how the Water Bank decides who gets access and how much should be saved for future shortages. KJZZ reported that Water Bank officials are considering policies that could limit distribution or require cities to show conservation efforts before receiving stored water.
Scottsdale is also adding to its stored-water portfolio. KJZZ reported that the city approved an $8.25 million purchase of water credits from Harquahala Valley through the Central Arizona Project. The credits represent water stored underground for future use. According to KJZZ, the purchase amounts to about 15,000 acre-feet of water and brings Scottsdale’s long-term water credits to just under 300,000 acre-feet.
The purchase shows how cities are looking beyond current deliveries and preparing for uncertainty. Stored credits can help provide backup during shortages, but they still depend on access, recovery, and long-term management.
Drought conditions are also affecting Arizona counties. Congressman Eli Crane’s office reported that the U.S. Department of Agriculture issued drought disaster designations for several Arizona counties. Gila, Pinal, and Yuma counties were elevated to primary disaster status in a later designation, while other counties were listed as contiguous. The designations can help make agricultural assistance available to eligible producers affected by drought.
Groundwater recharge remains part of the broader water planning conversation. Agri-Pulse reported that California lawmakers are again trying to address permitting delays for groundwater recharge projects. The bill discussed in the report would give farmers and water agencies more flexibility to capture high flows and move water underground when wet conditions allow. Supporters say current permitting can be too slow for short windows of available water.
The issue connects to Arizona’s own recharge discussions. Across the West, water managers are looking at ways to store more water underground during wet periods so communities and farms have more flexibility during dry years.
The legal side of western water also continues to grow. The Colorado Sun reported that the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear Nebraska’s lawsuit against Colorado over the proposed Perkins Canal. Nebraska says the canal is needed to bring South Platte River water into Nebraska under a 1923 compact. Colorado officials say the state is complying with the compact and will defend its water rights. (more…)
(Parker, Ariz.) CRIT’s Tribal Council has voted to acknowledge personhood status for the Colorado River under Tribal Law. The Tribal Council approved the resolution on November 6th.
Click the link below to see the entire resolution.
personhood resolution
The council’s decision came after soliciting substantial input from Tribal Members in person and in writing through numerous outreaches.
Other Tribes have approved similar measures to safeguard natural resources. CRIT would be the first community to do so for the Colorado River. The status comes as overuse and drought are threatening the life of the River which CRIT considers to be a living entity in addition to being a life-giving resource.
Personhood status means the Colorado River has the right to be protected under Tribal Law. The status directs current and future Tribal Councils to account for the needs of the River in decision-making as well as giving CRIT legal means to address the damage climate change is causing to the Colorado River.
The resolution states in part:
“There is no greater expression of sovereignty than protecting, stewarding, and securing for future generations what our Ancestors handed down to us, and that personhood status is a reflection of our values as a people and our spiritual, cultural, and religious connection to the Colorado River from the beginning of time through the end of time;”
CRIT’s Attorney General and staff will be developing provisions for Tribal Council review and possible approval for inclusion in the tribal code, including the Water Code, to reflect the personhood status of the Colorado River as well as all the protections to which the Colorado River will be entitled under tribal law.
CRIT Chairwoman Amelia Flores said, “This resolution authorizes CRIT to take specific and concrete actions for the river and its ecosystem at a time when, more than ever, it is needed. Within Arizona, CRIT will be inevitably asked to help shoulder the burden of maintaining Arizona’s economy and way of life. This must be a two-way street, however. At CRIT we are prepared to engage and be part of the solution for Arizona, but part of the solution is the long-term protection of our river. The river is a part of who we are and who we will always be: The Colorado River Indian Tribes.”
In the quiet valley of the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT), once stood one of the largest Japanese American incarceration camps of World War II, the Poston War Relocation Center. Between 1942 and 1945, nearly 18,000 men, women, and children of Japanese ancestry were forced to live there.
This past weekend, the annual Poston Pilgrimage returned to the CRIT Reservation, drawing in the largest gathering to date. More than 100 visitors met at the CRIT Museum to honor those who have lost their lives while imprisoned at Poston. Starting the weekend off at Blue Water Casino was an introduction of the event with descendants of former incarceratees, Chairwoman Amelia Flores, Debbie Pettigrew, and Karen Harjo. Many of the adults who once lived in the camps have since passed on, leaving their children to share stories of life inside, memories that continue to move and teach new generations.
This year’s pilgrimage carries special meaning with the arrival of the Ireichō, also known as The Book of Names.
The Ireichō is part of the Irei: National Monument for the WWII Japanese American Incarceration, a national project dedicated to honoring more than 125,000 people of the Japanese ancestry who were unjustly imprisoned during the war.
For the first time, every individual’s name has been compiled into one permanent record. The Ireichō follows the Japanese Buddhist tradition of kakochō, “The Book of the Past,” in which the names of those who have passed are written to be remembered and respected.
Unveiled at the Japanese American National Museum, the Ireichō invites visitors to place a red hank (stamp) beneath each name as an act of remembrance. The book has since traveled to historic incarceration sites across the country, allowing families, descendants, and visitors to honor those who lived through that time in history.
The day began with a blessing from Duncan Ryūken Williams, the Ireichō’s co-founder and Soto Zen Buddhist priest.
The Ase S’maav Parker Boys and the River Tribes United Dance Group shared songs and danced for the descendants of Poston’s former residents. The ceremony closed with a memorable moment as children and families were invited to stamp the Book of Names.
Each year, the Poston Pilgrimage brings together descendants, historians, and community members returning to the monument to honor those who lived behind the barbed wire and ensures their stories continue to be told. What makes Poston unique is its shared history between the Japanese American community and the tribal nations whose land was used for the camp. Built on CRIT lands under federal direction, the camp became a symbol of resilience and reflection, a reminder of the injustices endured and strength that followed. (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.
