New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson (D) is headed to Washington, D.C., to ensure tribes receive money for their water rights.

The Navajo Nation, Taos Pueblo and five other Pueblos have signed settlements with the state. But the Bush administration is balking at providing money for the deals.

The Navajo Nation's deal is worth $800 million, with the federal government expected to provide the bulk of the money. The Taos Pueblo deal is worth $133 million.

The deal with Pojoaque, Tesuque, Nambe and San Ildefonso pueblos requires the creation of a regional water system that would cost up to $177 million.

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Governor to lobby for water funding, campaign for Democrats (AP 9/25)
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Relevant Links:
New Mexico Office of the State Engineer - http://www.ose.state.nm.us

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