- Bipartisan legislation introduced to ratify the agreement.
- $1.039 billion allocated for infrastructure development.
- Settlement ensures water security for the Yavapai-Apache Nation.
- Critical step towards protecting the Verde River’s flow.
July 17, 2024 –– The Yavapai-Apache Nation and Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema have announced a landmark agreement to secure the tribe’s water rights and protect the Verde River. This bipartisan legislation, the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024, authorizes $1.039 billion in funding to build essential water infrastructure, including a pipeline and a drinking water treatment plant. This settlement is the culmination of decades of negotiations and represents a major step forward in ensuring water security for the Yavapai-Apache Nation and the surrounding communities.
A Win for the Yavapai-Apache Nation and the Environment.
The agreement confirms the Nation’s rights to 4,610 acre-feet of water per year, a crucial resource for the tribe’s future. The pipeline will draw water from the C.C. Cragin Reservoir, reducing the need for groundwater pumping and helping to protect the flow of the Verde River, a vital cultural and ecological resource. In addition to water rights, the settlement includes a land exchange with the Forest Service, securing lands contiguous to the Middle Verde Reservation and further enhancing the Nation’s resilience and environmental stewardship.
Statements from Key Figures.
Senator Mark Kelly emphasized the importance of water rights and reliable water supplies for Arizona’s future, stating, “This settlement is a significant step toward ensuring the Yavapai-Apache Nation and surrounding communities have the resources they need to thrive, while also protecting the vital flow of the Verde River.”
Chairwoman Tanya Lewis of the Yavapai-Apache Nation
Governor Katie Hobbs
A Bipartisan Effort for Arizona’s Future.
The House version of the bill, H.R. 8949, was introduced by Representative David Schweikert (R-AZ-1) and enjoys bipartisan support from Representatives Debbie Lesko (R-AZ-8), Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-6), and Greg Stanton (D-AZ-4). This collective effort reflects a shared commitment to securing Arizona’s water future and upholding the federal trust responsibility to the Yavapai-Apache Nation.
Bill Tracking.
“S.4705 – 118th Congress (2023-2024): A bill to approve the settlement of water rights claims of the Yavapai-Apache Nation in the State of Arizona, to authorize construction of a water project relating to those water rights claims, and for other purposes.” Congress.gov, Library of Congress, 11 July 2024, https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/4705
“H.R.8949 – 118th Congress (2023-2024): To approve the settlement of water rights claims of the Yavapai-Apache Nation in the State of Arizona, to authorize construction of a water project relating to those water rights claims, and for other purposes.” Congress.gov, Library of Congress, 8 July 2024, https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/8949
Image:
Verde River flowing south
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