Colorado River Indian Tribes recognize river as a living being with legal rights

The Colorado River Indian Tribes of Arizona and California voted this month to recognize the Colorado River as a living being with the same legal rights as a person, according to KUNC. The resolution states that “there is no greater expression of sovereignty than protecting, stewarding, and securing for future generations what our Ancestors handed down to us.”

Chairwoman Amelia Flores said the designation gives the tribal council authority to include actions in future water transactions that support the river’s long-term health, such as habitat restoration and wetland development. The tribes hold the senior-most water rights in Arizona for Colorado River water, Flores said, adding that protection efforts must focus on what people can give back to the river, not only what it provides.