Environment | Law

Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation strive for unity in water rights talks






From left: Sen. Jeff Flake (R), Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey (R), Hopi Tribe Chairman Herman Honanie, Sen. John McCain (R) and Navajo Nation President Russell Begaye. Photo from Hopi Tribe

Leaders of the Hopi Tribe and the Navajo Nation came together on April 1 and pledged to work together to resolve their water rights on the Little Colorado River in Arizona.

The tribes have been unable to reach a settlement since the late 1970s, Arizona Public Radio reported. But leaders say they are going to work out their differences in order to provide stability and economic development for their communities.

“We are two nations, one voice," Hopi Chairman Herman Honanie said in a press release.

“Both tribes are prepared to move forward to discuss settlement," added President Russell Begaye of the Navajo Nation.

The settlement would need Congressional approval.

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Navajo Nation and Hopi Tribe Revive Little Colorado River Settlement Talks (KNAU 4/12)

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