I recently had the opportunity to speak with John Echohawk, Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), about the organization's longstanding involvement in water rights issues. Since its inception in 1970, NARF has prioritized water rights as a critical area of focus for Tribal Nations.
During our conversation, Echohawk elaborated on how NARF began addressing tribal water work. "It was the result of deliberations by our first advisory council that then turned into our board of directors," he explained. He noted that protecting natural resources, including water rights, was one of five priorities identified early on by the organization.
Echohawk highlighted the significance of a 1908 U.S. Supreme Court decision which affirmed that Tribes have reserved water rights under federal law, granting them precedence over most state water rights holders during shortages. This legal principle became a cornerstone of NARF's efforts to help Tribes assert their reserved water rights amidst growing competition for resources in western states.
The discussion also touched upon Echohawk's experiences working on pivotal cases like Pyramid Lake and collaborating with various stakeholders to promote negotiated settlements for Tribal water claims. He emphasized the importance of continuing education for public and elected leaders on Tribal water issues to ensure future needs are met.
Reflecting on his tenure at NARF, Echohawk expressed pride in advancing self-determination and sovereignty among Tribes since 1970. "To see Tribes gradually grow...and become more economically self-sufficient and able to manage their own affairs," he remarked, underscores their integral role in America today.
The interview is part of The Headwaters Report series, offering insights into ongoing challenges and commitments related to Tribal Nation water rights.
