Governor Katie Hobbs signed two major agreements Tuesday to address Arizona’s long-standing water rights challenges, marking a series of actions that represent decades of advocacy and negotiation. Four Tribal nations were promised water security with the signing of the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Agreement (YANWRSA) and the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Agreement (NAIWRSA).
Tens of thousands of people in the state could have sustainable water supply thanks to these settlements, the governor’s office announced. “This is a historic moment for the State of Arizona, Tribal nations, and all parties to these agreements,” said Governor Hobbs. By providing tens of thousands of Arizonans with a sustainable water supply and fostering the growth of local economies, they have a significant and long-lasting effect. Her participation demonstrates her dedication to working with Arizona’s Tribal nations and safeguarding the state’s water resources for all residents.
In particular, the NAIWRSA resolves groundwater, Little Colorado River, and Colorado River water rights cases in northeastern Arizona. It is expected that the Navajo Nation, Hopi Tribe, and San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe will have safer and more dependable access to water thanks to the agreed-upon provisions for water infrastructure expansion.
Additionally, after living side by side with the Navajo Nation for almost 200 years, the deal confers formal recognition of the 5,400 acres, marking a huge triumph for the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe. The Office of the Governor said, “The San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe sincerely appreciates Governor Hobbs steadfast support for the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Agreement,” in a statement from Vice President Johnny Lehi Jr.
In the meantime, the YANWRSA protects ecological interests associated with the Verde River and guarantees a steady supply of water. A 60-mile pipeline that will transport water from C.C. Cragin Reservoir to the Yavapai-Apache Nation is part of the arrangement. According to the Office of the Governor, Chairwoman Tanya Lewis stated, “We are proud to have reached this critical milestone for the Yavapai-Apache Nation and the Verde River.”
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