Arizona ranchers typically use a series of wells for domestic purposes and irrigation. However, a lawsuit has prevented some from using wells due to water rights claimed by the Gila River Indian Community.
The tribe says the ranchers pumped water in violation of a decree. However, the ranchers argued that water pumped from the wells is groundwater rather than subflow from the Gila River.
The United States District Court ruled in favor of the Gila River Indian Community.
Director Tim Berg of Fennemore Craig, P.C. says the law being used to seal the wells is too broad in scope and reaches beyond what it was intended to cover.
“We also have taken the position that the remedy of sealing the wells entirely rather than some less onerous remedy is inappropriate," he said.
The ranchers have now appealed to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to reverse the decision.
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The official designation comes at a pivotal time when sustained drought threatens this precious natural resource — CRIT considers “a living entity” — running parallel to the nearly 300,000-acre reservation along the California border. -
Beyond the bickering Upper and Lower Basin states, there are 30 federally recognized tribes stuck in the middle of a decades-old debate on how best to divvy the water while keeping the ever-dwindling river flowing. -
Without reliable internet, it’s tough for veterans to apply for and access financial and health benefits, including mental care. But a Phoenix-based company and an Arizona state agency are partnering to help better equip those living on tribal lands. -
The Pentagon pointed KJZZ to Truth Social — adding nothing more at this time — when asked for more information about Trump’s post he made while overseas moments before meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. -
With only a dozen or so stores scattered throughout the Navajo Nation, buying groceries is already a daily struggle. But letting benefits lapse could make their dilemma much worse.
