Historic water rights settlement introduced for Arizona tribes

• Legislation introduced to secure water rights for Navajo, Hopi, and San Juan Southern Paiute Tribes.​
• Proposal includes $5.1 billion for water infrastructure projects.​
• Agreement aims to resolve longstanding disputes over water resources.​

Wednesday, March 12, 2025 — Yesterday, a bipartisan group of Arizona lawmakers introduced the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Act (NAIWRSA) of 2025. The legislation seeks to ratify and fund a historic agreement securing water rights for the Navajo Nation, the Hopi Tribe, and the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe, aiming to resolve one of Arizona’s longest-standing water disputes.​

Comprehensive Water Rights Settlement.

The proposed settlement guarantees the tribes access to over 56,000 acre-feet of Colorado River water annually, alongside specific groundwater rights and protections. This allocation is designed to provide reliable and safe water supplies to these communities, addressing decades of uncertainty and contention over water resources.​

Economic Opportunities Through Water Leasing.

The legislation permits the Navajo Nation and the Hopi Tribe to lease a portion of their water rights, creating economic opportunities until local demand is met through new infrastructure. This flexibility allows the tribes to benefit economically while infrastructure projects are underway.​

Significant Investment in Water Infrastructure.

A key component of the act is the authorization of $5.1 billion for the acquisition, construction, and maintenance of essential water development and delivery projects, including a distribution pipeline. This investment aims to ensure that tribal communities have access to clean and reliable water, fostering economic and social progress.​

Conservation Measures and Environmental Impact.

As part of the agreement, the Navajo Nation and the Hopi Tribe are required to leave 17,050 acre-feet per year of Arizona Upper Basin water in Lake Powell for the first 20 years. This measure is intended to support broader conservation efforts within the Colorado River Basin.​

Establishment of a Homeland for the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe.

The legislation also formally establishes a homeland for the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe, providing a foundation for the tribe’s future development and self-determination.​

Support from Tribal and State Leaders.

Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren expressed appreciation for the reintroduction of NAIWRSA, stating, “NAIWRSA is about life. NAIWRSA is about our future.” San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe President Carlene Yellowhair highlighted the significance of the legislation, noting, “Clean, running water and permanent homes are luxuries our people have gone too long without.”​

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs also voiced strong support, urging Congress to approve the settlement to bring “clean, reliable water to thousands of Indigenous families, rectify generations of injustice, and foster economic and social progress.”​

What’s Next.

The introduction of the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Act of 2025 marks a pivotal step toward resolving longstanding water rights disputes in Arizona. The bipartisan support for the legislation reflects a collective commitment to ensuring water security and promoting economic development for the Navajo, Hopi, and San Juan Southern Paiute Tribes.​

As the bill moves through the legislative process, stakeholders remain hopeful that its passage will bring lasting benefits to the tribes and contribute to the sustainable management of Arizona’s vital water resources.

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