The two largest tribal water rights holders in Arizona and the Central Arizona Water Conservation District accomplished something that has eluded states so far. They have pledged greater cooperation in managing and addressing Colorado River issues, including shortages, river restoration and a long-term drought that bodes a long-term change in the Southwest’s climate. The Colorado River Indian Tribes, Gila River Indian Community and CAWCD, which manages the Central Arizona Project, put their promise in a proclamation demonstrating their commitment to collaboration and conservation, signing it on Dec. 17 during the Colorado River Water Users Association annual meeting.

Other tribal water news:

• The Arizona Republic (Phoenix): Opinion: Tribal water access is at a crossroads and it’s urgent
• Navajo Times (Window Rock, Ariz.): Colorado River nears limits that could constrain releases at major dams
• Newsweek: Colorado River water contamination is impacting certain groups more