A bill to resolve an outstanding issue of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation's water rights settlement is ready for President Bush's signature.

The tribe received a $13 million loan as part of a settlement passed in 1990. The Interior Department was to develop 1,584 acres for farming under the law.

But since 227 of the 1,584 acres can't be used for development, the tribe doesn't need the loan. Fort McDowell Farms is one of the tribe's nine businesses.

To resolve the issue, the bill forgives the loan. The tribe will save $4 million and Interior will save $5.6 million.

Get the Story:
Congress approves deal to save U.S., tribe millions (The Arizona Republic 10/2)

Get the Bill:
S.2464 | H.R.5299

Relevant Links:
Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation - http://www.ftmcdowell.org

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