Cocopah Tribe begins floodplain restoration as act of cultural survival

The Cocopah Indian Tribe is launching a 400-acre restoration project in Arizona’s Colorado River floodplain, aiming to remove invasive species and replant native vegetation. With support from the National Audubon Society and federal funding, the project will restore access to traditional gathering spaces and reconnect youth to the river’s cultural significance. Vice Chairman Neil White said the effort is “going to empower us to get back to our traditional ways.”