The Bureau of Reclamation is scheduled to present the findings of a regional water planning study to the Flagstaff City Council on October 23, 2025. The presentation will take place in the City Council Chambers and is open to the public both in person and online.
The study, conducted by Reclamation’s Value Program Office, was designed to help Flagstaff and its partners identify a resilient and redundant regional water solution. This effort follows decades of collaboration among Flagstaff, Reclamation, the Navajo Nation, and other stakeholders in the region focused on assessing water demand, supply shortages, and long-term needs. Flagstaff also participates in the Coconino Plateau Watershed Partnership, a group with more than 30 partners working together to address current and future regional water requirements.
According to the City of Flagstaff, “Although independent, the value planning study is consistent with and complements the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Agreement (NAIWRSA). The City is a party to NAIWRSA, which was executed by Governor Katie Hobbs on Nov. 19, 2024.”
Further federal investigations by Reclamation could follow if supported by letters from Senator Mark Kelly and Governor Katie Hobbs that were sent to the Commissioner for the United States Bureau of Reclamation in November 2024.
Reclamation’s results will be presented at a joint public meeting with both the City Council and Water Commission. The public is encouraged to attend or listen online.
For additional information or related questions, contact City Attorney Sterling Solomon at SSolomon@flagstaffaz.gov.
