July 28, 2026 7:18 pm
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
July 28, 2026 7:18 pm
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
Federal officials again summoned governors from all seven Colorado River Basin states to Washington, D.C., signaling growing concern that negotiations remain stuck. Reports indicate the federal government is preparing to step in more forcefully if states cannot agree on near-term shortage management and a longer-term framework.
Governor Katie Hobbs is escalating efforts to restrict groundwater pumping tied to Saudi-backed alfalfa farming in La Paz County. The reporting highlights how years of unregulated groundwater use have drawn down aquifers connected to Colorado River–dependent regions.
New analysis outlines what may come next if Basin states fail to reach agreement, including deeper federal control, stricter shortage tiers, and more aggressive conservation.
Sources – January 23, 2026
Arizona Budget Proposal Includes Major Funding for Colorado River Protection
On January 16, 2026, the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) shared details of Governor Katie Hobbs’ FY 2027 Executive Budget Proposal focused on preparing for long-term challenges facing the Colorado River. The plan includes new and expanded funding aimed at strengthening water security across Arizona in the face of ongoing Colorado River shortages.
Key points from the budget related to water:
Source:
Arizona Water News https://azwaternews.com/2026/01/16/fy2027_execbudgetproposal/
Arizona announced new groundwater management rules for parts of La Paz County, expanding oversight in an area long known for unregulated pumping. The move follows increased scrutiny of agricultural water use and reflects a broader push to protect groundwater supplies as Colorado River shortages continue. La Paz County lies within CRIT’s region. Stronger groundwater rules help prevent over-pumping that can undermine surface water systems and threaten tribal water security.
A water policy expert argues that Basin states are unlikely to compromise without clear federal consequences. With post-2026 rules approaching, the federal government’s willingness to step in is seen as a key driver for progress. Federal involvement increases the importance of ensuring tribal water rights and sovereignty are explicitly recognized in any imposed or negotiated plan.
Multiple outlets report on the release of the draft post-2026 Colorado River management alternatives by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. The plan outlines several options for operating Lake Powell and Lake Mead, including deeper cuts and greater federal control if states fail to agree. Officials stress that public and stakeholder input is still open but time is limited. These alternatives could directly affect downstream water deliveries. CRIT’s senior water rights, sovereignty, and river stewardship must be included before any plan is finalized.
Arizona municipal water providers stress that collaboration during the legislative session will be essential to address shortages, infrastructure needs, and conservation goals tied to the Colorado River.
Legislation was introduced in Congress to formally codify a tribal water rights settlement, providing legal certainty and recognition of the tribe’s rights. Each tribal settlement strengthens the broader recognition of tribal water rights across the Colorado River Basin and reinforces sovereignty.
Reports highlight emerging technologies, including satellite tools and agricultural innovations, aimed at reducing water use and improving efficiency across the West. Technology can support conservation efforts, but it does not replace enforceable water rights or the need to protect river flows.
Several outlets reported on the release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, which outlines how the Colorado River could be managed after current rules expire in 2026.
The draft lays out five possible management alternatives for operating Lake Powell and Lake Mead, including options where the federal government steps in if Basin states cannot agree. Federal officials acknowledge that a temporary or stopgap deal may be necessary if negotiations remain stalled. These decisions will directly affect how water is released downstream.
As a senior water rights holder, CRIT’s rights and sovereignty must be protected in any final plan. The draft process is a critical opportunity for tribal input.
Coverage from Nevada and Utah outlets explains that while states continue negotiations, deep disagreements remain over how water cuts should be shared. Federal officials are signaling they are prepared to act if consensus is not reached.Some articles describe this moment as a turning point, where long-standing assumptions about water use are being challenged and previously “untouchable” practices are now on the table.
If states fail to agree, federal decisions could reshape river operations. Tribal nations must be included to ensure historic rights are not overlooked.
California-focused reporting explains how the draft federal plan could require additional water cuts, even during wet years. Officials emphasize that recent storms do not erase long-term shortages caused by overuse and climate change.
California’s use affects overall Basin stability. How cuts are distributed influences downstream reliability for Lower Basin users.
Multiple sources covered Arizona’s continued focus on groundwater protection, including new Active Management Areas and enforcement actions tied to large agricultural water users. These efforts are framed as necessary as Colorado River supplies remain uncertain.
As surface water becomes less reliable, pressure shifts to groundwater. Strong regulation helps prevent over-pumping that could undermine regional water security and tribal resources.
Nonprofit and policy reporting highlights a key admission from federal officials: a full, long-term Colorado River agreement may not be ready by 2026, making interim solutions likely. (more…)
Bureau of Reclamation – The Bureau of Reclamation released its long-awaited Draft Environmental Impact Statement outlining potential strategies for managing Lake Powell and Lake Mead after 2026, when current operating guidelines expire. The draft presents multiple alternatives, including scenarios where the federal government steps in if Basin states fail to reach agreement. No preferred alternative has been selected yet, keeping negotiations open.This document will directly shape how Colorado River water is managed in the future. Tribal water rights, sovereignty, and protections for the river itself must be recognized in any final decision.
Lake Powell Chronicle – This piece outlines which players are involved in current negotiations and what each is seeking, including states, tribes, and federal agencies.Who is “at the table” determines whose rights and values are reflected in the final outcome. Tribal voices remain essential.
Tucson Sentinel – Despite recent storms and heavy rainfall in Phoenix, much of Arizona remains in long-term drought. Experts caution that short-term rain does not replenish groundwater or stabilize Colorado River supplies. Reinforces that reliance on weather alone will not protect tribal water rights or the river.
Arizona Water News – Arizona Department of Water Resources hydrologists are conducting field investigations across multiple basins to better understand groundwater use and conditions. Increased groundwater scrutiny reflects growing pressure as Colorado River supplies tighten, which can affect regional water demand and policy.
KLAS CBS 8 – Forces aligning against healthy snowpack for Colorado River states
Experts warn that warming temperatures, dry spells, and climate trends are working against the development of a healthy snowpack, threatening future river flows. Snowpack is the river’s primary source. Poor conditions upstream affect all downstream users.
Colorado Public Radio / The Hill – House fails to override Trump veto of Colorado water project
Lawmakers failed to override a presidential veto blocking a major Colorado water infrastructure project, leaving future water deliveries uncertain.Delays in infrastructure add pressure to existing Colorado River supplies. (more…)
KGUN 9 Tucson – Group urges Sahuarita to review Hudbay groundwater agreement
Community advocates are calling for closer review of groundwater agreements tied to mining operations, citing long-term water security concerns.
Cave Creek/Carefree Independent – Water at the forefront of Tuesday meetings
Local leaders are increasingly focused on water planning as development and supply concerns grow.
Santa Rosa Press Democrat – California’s largest reservoir rises 36 feet as rains boost water supply statewide. Storms have boosted reservoir levels in California, but officials caution that snowpack remains below what is needed for long-term security.
GV Wire – Winter storms wipe out drought in California, for now
California officials stress that recent rains offer short-term relief but do not end the drought.
CBS News – Colorado’s snowpack woes continue into 2026
Colorado snowpack remains well below average, heightening concern for river flows later this year.
Salt Lake Tribune – The Great Salt Lake enters 2026 uncomfortably close to record lows.
Low water levels highlight the broader regional water crisis tied to climate change and overuse.
Engineering News-Record – At Lake Powell, engineering is outpacing Colorado River policy.
Engineers are adapting dam operations to keep the system functioning, even as policymakers lag behind on long-term solutions.
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…)
