Maykh!   

I am honored to share updates on my work safeguarding our water. These past few months have been dedicated to advancing responsible water management. The water industry is undergoing a pivotal transformation, one that centers on Tribal inclusion. It is a privilege to contribute to this historic shift, where Tribal voices are finally being heard and recognized as sovereigns, but there is still more work to do. 

I strongly believe in the importance of Nuuchiu representation at all water meetings. As negotiations for the Post-2026 Colorado River operating guidelines continue, it is crucial to remember that Tribes hold 20-30% of the water rights. The Southern Ute Indian Tribe has quantified and settled its water rights, and we are actively engaged in Colorado River discussions with the Bureau of Reclamation, the Upper Colorado River Commission, the State of Colorado, and other Colorado River Basin Tribes. 

The Colorado River’s water crisis demands urgent attention. The 2007 Interim Guidelines, designed as a temporary measure, have proven insufficient to address the region’s growing water needs. The upcoming negotiations offer a unique opportunity to develop comprehensive and sustainable solutions that prioritize long-term water security. While several proposals have been submitted, they fall short of adequately addressing Tribal water rights and acknowledging the role of undeveloped Tribal water. 

Tribal water rights are paramount. The protection and development of these rights are essential for ensuring the Tribe’s future. The Lower Basin proposal, while focusing on system stabilization, fails to adequately address Tribal water issues. The Upper Basin proposal acknowledges settled but undeveloped Tribal water rights, but offers no concrete plans for their utilization. 

Achieving long-term water security requires a fundamental shift. The Lower Basin must reduce its overconsumption and rely solely on the natural flow of the river. Tribes should be fairly compensated for their undeveloped water, which has played a crucial role in propping up the Colorado River System. 

We look forward to engaging in open and honest discussions with the Colorado River Basin States and the Federal Government to explore appropriate compensation for unused Tribal water and develop sustainable water management strategies that benefit all stakeholders. 

Southern Ute is committed to participating in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process for developing post-2026 operating guidelines for Lake Powell and Lake Mead. Our goal is to protect our water resources and fully utilize our settled and quantified water rights. 

The Southern Ute Indian Tribe hosted the first meeting between the Upper Colorado River Commission and the Upper Basin Tribes in 2022. In April 2024, the six Upper Basin Tribes signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Upper Colorado River Commission. This MOU commemorates the parties’ commitment to sharing information, discussing issues of mutual concern, and working towards common goals. This is a significant step forward, as historically, Tribes have been excluded from Colorado River management decisions. 

I am encouraged by the growing shift toward Tribal inclusion in Colorado River Basin discussions at the state and federal level. Tribal leaders must be actively present to ensure our voices and concerns are heard. Our participation signifies our commitment to protecting our water. 

The Tribe is also actively involved in the “Post 2026 Federal-Tribes-States” meetings, which focus on the NEPA process for the Post-2026 Colorado River operating guidelines. These meetings provide a platform for Tribes to participate in important Colorado River discussions. 

I am grateful for the opportunity to represent our Tribe in shaping policies that directly impact our water resources. We should not allow another Tribe to speak for us. Together with dedicated colleagues, we are developing solutions that balance the needs of all stakeholders while prioritizing the long-term health of Mother Nature. 

Re-Indigenizing conservation is critical. As Nuuchiu, we are the original stewards of this land. For generations, we have cared for the environment and our natural resources. While Western technology and science have contributed valuable research, it is essential to re-incorporate the conservation practices our ancestors perfected since the beginning of time. Our presence at these meetings ensures that our ancestral knowledge is valued and integrated into modern water management. This level of inclusion is unprecedented and there are other stakeholders who rely on undeveloped Tribal water.  

As a member of the Colorado Water Conservation Board, I have been working tirelessly to establish a seat for representation from the Southern Ute Indian and Ute Mountain Ute Tribes. With the Indigenous Women’s Leadership Network, I remain committed to strengthening, supporting, and creating spaces for women to enter leadership roles. It is an honor to be representing our Tribe, culture, and water rights at World Water Week in Sweden later this month, I will be participating in several panels to share our perspectives on protecting our precious paa. The conference’s inclusion of Tribal voices from around the world is a significant step forward. 

By advocating for Tribal representation and sharing our unique perspectives, we are working towards a more equitable and sustainable future.