July 29, 2026 1:41 am
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
July 29, 2026 1:41 am
CRIT Nation, Parker, AZ
Per the notice attached below, official comments must be made in writing to CRRMC, therefore comments made on Facebook will not be considered official.
Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR (Environmental Review Record) to the Colorado River Residential Management Corporation, Morris P. Sevada III, Executive Director. All comments received by September 24, 2024, will be considered by the Colorado River Indian Tribes prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which Notice they are addressing.
Please mail any comments to:
Colorado River Residential Management Corporation
PO Box 3427
Parker, Arizona 85344
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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.
PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Gaming (“ADG”) is issuing this Consumer Protection Alert to inform Arizonans of a concerning nationwide trend that has now reached Arizona. Fraudulent operators are falsely claiming that legitimate Arizona casinos have launched online gaming platforms. These illegal online casino platforms are presenting themselves as legitimate platforms by offering illegitimate or illegal gaming services. Online casinos (often referred to as “igaming”) are not legal in Arizona. Any claims otherwise should be treated as highly suspicious. These scams not only put players at financial risk but also undermine the integrity of Arizona’s regulated gaming industry.
ADG has received multiple reports of fraudulent online casinos targeting Arizonans, as well as complaints from patrons who have been misled. These scams are being widely disseminated through social media advertisements directing consumers to download apps and visit websites, and are enticing unsuspecting consumers to spend money on illegitimate games.
The Arizona Department of Gaming urges residents to verify the legitimacy of any online gaming platform before engaging in play. Many of these operations are not legal or regulated, leaving users vulnerable to fraud, identity theft, and other serious risks. Due to their unregulated nature, ADG is unable to resolve complaints and disputes arising from unregulated and illegal gaming sites, leaving victims with little to no chance of recovering lost funds. It is important to remember that just because you can download the app, visit the website, and play the games, it does not mean it is a legitimate and legal gaming platform.
In light of these developments, the Department encourages both Arizona residents and visitors to visit our website to find a list of all regulated casinos and licensed event wagering and fantasy sports operators legally taking bets in Arizona. The list can be found on the Department’s website at gaming.az.gov. Legal, regulated operations provide important consumer protections not found in the illegal market, helping ensure a safer experience for participants.
In case you missed it, in late January, the Department released a public service announcement highlighting tips for safe and responsible online gaming. View the press release here: Media Room.
It is with heavy hearts that the Colorado River Indian Tribes mourns the loss of Emily Pike, whose life was taken from the world by an act of senseless violence.
Emily was a cherished member of the San Carlos Apache Indian Tribe.
The Colorado River Indian Tribes would like to extend its deepest condolences to her family and loved ones during this difficult time. May her memory be a blessing, and may she rest in peace.
Emily Pike’s death sparks a call for justice as the community gathers at her murial painted on a water tank just off of U.S. Route 70 near a Bashas’ grocery store in Peridot Arizona, The murial was painted by San Carlos Apache artist Myron Starr. Other artists who joined Starr for the project were Carrie Sage Curley and Samuel Bendle, who are both San Carlos Apache, and AJ Larson, Felicia Garcia and Erica Raymond.
Hundreds of red handprints went up onto the memorial dedicated in honor of Emily Pike and her tragic passing.
Emily’s death has also ignited an outcry on social media, with many using hashtags like #JusticeforEmilyPike, #NoMoreMMIW and #SayHerName, to bring more visibility to her case and missing and murdered Indigenous people.
Councilman Tommy Drennan attended a candle light vigil on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation, Saturday, March 15, 2025, delivering remarks from Chairwoman Flores and expressing condolences, support and a prayer for hope from the Colorado River Indian Tribes.
Scottsdale Ferrari Art Week will feature a unique rendering of the Colorado River which will be painted Wednesday March 19th at the CRIT reservation next to the BlueWater Resort and Casino.
The art fair takes place March 20-23 in Scottsdale and will feature works of art from some 100 galleries worldwide.
The artist will donate 50% of the sale of that painting to CRIT.
Artist Ben Miller will create this work using thousands of singular casts with a fly rod. Miller calls this process ‘Fly Cast Painting’ and terms the various shaped materials on the end of the rod ‘Fly Brushes’. He is inviting members of CRIT to watch him as he creates this painting on March 19th from 8am to 4pm.
CRIT Royalty hosted an Elder Bing event on March 13th. The group wanted to be more engaged with their tribal elders and decided to hold the event during spring break. Winners were able to choose from a collection of prizes donated by CRIT Royalty and the Royalty Board Members.
CRIT Chairwoman Amelia Flores, Secretary Josephine Tahbo and Councilwoman Vanessa Welch attended the event.
CRIT Royalty thanks the CRIT Mo-Chem-Ho-Na senior center and everybody who was able to attend.
CRIT Royalty would also like to remind CRIT members about the upcoming Mega Throw which will be held at the Ahakhav Tribal Preserve (25401 Rodeo Dr, Parker, AZ 85344) as well as their upcoming 50/50 raffle, both of which will take place March 22nd to March 23rd.
