July 28, 2026 8:52 pm
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
July 28, 2026 8:52 pm
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
Please follow the link for complete announcement.
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
The Colorado River Indian Tribes Employment Development and Training Department (ED&T) continues to be a vital resource for tribal members seeking support, skills, and employment. Through partnerships with the Department of Labor, Arizona Tribal Workforce, and the Department of Economic Security, ED&T provides job readiness services, education support, and hands-on work experience to those enrolled in a federally recognized tribe. Their mission focuses on promoting general welfare, encouraging educational progress, protecting tribal interests, and helping community members build stable, independent futures.
The department offers a wide range of services designed to meet people where they are. Community members can receive help studying for a driver’s permit or license, creating resumes and cover letters, preparing job applications, and building job readiness skills. ED&T also assists with obtaining needed documents such as a GED or ID. For those looking to gain work experience, the Adult Work Experience program offers a 90-day on-the-job training period with the goal of permanent employment once training is complete. High school and college students can participate in the Summer Youth Experience Program, which provides hands-on workplace exposure during summer break. When needed, ED&T also provides supportive services such as work clothing, tuition assistance, certifications, testing fees, and education supplies if those items cannot be obtained through another program.
Click the links below to upload needed forms
UPDATED SUPPORTIVE SERVICE FORM 2025
The department is guided by a committed team dedicated to helping the community move forward. Acting Director and Case Worker Kaye Antone works closely with participants to understand their goals, explore their interests, and determine what support they may need. Office Administrator Madolyn Brenner reviews applications, assists staff, and helps maintain a welcoming and organized department. Office Assistant Deaun Johnson and ED&T participant supports daily operations, helps participants with questions, and ensures they receive assistance quickly and respectfully. Together, the team works one-on-one with community members and emphasizes the importance of offering help confidentially and with care, recognizing that every situation is different. (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…)
