Rep. Crane Secures Water Rights for Arizona Tribes

On July 16, 2024, Congressman Eli Crane (R-AZ) announced his co-sponsorship of legislation to ratify the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Agreement. This landmark agreement addresses critical water issues for the Navajo Nation, the Hopi Tribe, and the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe.

The settlement promises to deliver clean, sustainable water to these communities, ensuring their right to water and providing economic opportunities through leasing their water rights. This legislation will fund the construction and maintenance of essential water infrastructure, including a distribution pipeline, guaranteeing access to over 56,000 acre-feet of water.

Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ), co-sponsor of the bill, emphasized the bipartisan effort to secure this vital resource. Navajo Nation Speaker Crystalyne Curley highlighted the desperate need for water in many Navajo homes and explained how the infrastructure will drastically improve health and development on the reservation. Without it, communities remain vulnerable, and growth is stunted.

Rep. Crane, an entrepreneur and former Navy SEAL, expressed pride in representing these tribes, underscoring the importance of this legislation for Northern Arizonans. Crane represents 14 of Arizona’s 22 federally recognized tribes, including those in Coconino County, Apache County, and Navajo County. Crane noted that the bill is a victory for all parties involved, paving the way for economic prosperity and stability.

The Director of Native Americans for Sovereignty and Preservation (NASP), applauded Crane’s efforts, stating, “Representative Eli Crane’s dedication to securing water rights for our tribes exemplifies his commitment to serving the Navajo Nation and the other tribes he represents. His efforts to end the wait for water rights and establish a reservation for the San Juan Southern Paiute demonstrate that he is the right person to continue advocating for tribal sovereignty.”

In addition to securing water rights, the legislation includes the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribal Homelands Act, which will establish a reservation for the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe. This provision resolves a historical dispute over land and water rights, finally granting the tribe their own homeland.

Rep. Crane’s commitment to the tribes of Arizona exemplifies a dedication to preserving American history and culture while ensuring a sustainable future. This legislation provides for immediate needs and sets the stage for long-term economic growth and stability for Arizona’s tribes.

With bipartisan support and collaboration among tribal, state, and federal officials, this settlement marks a significant achievement in securing water rights and fostering partnerships that benefit all involved.

Native Americans for Sovereignty and Preservation (NASP) is sharing this information from Matthew Holloway, a reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to [email protected].

Key Takeaways:

• The Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Agreement addresses critical water issues for the Navajo Nation, Hopi Tribe, and San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe.
• The legislation will fund water infrastructure, providing over 56,000 acre-feet of water.
• The San Juan Southern Paiute Tribal Homelands Act establishes a reservation for the tribe, resolving historical land disputes.
• This collaborative effort ensures a secure water future and economic opportunities for Arizona’s tribes.
• Rep. Eli Crane, an entrepreneur and former Navy SEAL, serves over half of Arizona’s Native American tribes, advocating for tribal sovereignty and pushing back against federal bureaucratic overreach.