The Walton Family Foundation has announced a three-year, $1.4 million grant to the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) to launch a Tribal Water Institute.

To be housed within the Native American Rights Fund, the institute will provide Tribal Nations with resources and training to advocate for water rights and develop water policy solutions. The commitment will enable NARF to double its water staff to take on more casework and build a pipeline of new leaders and develop research and forward-thinking policy proposals.

“Addressing the West’s significant water challenges requires an all-hands on deck approach. Tribal Nations must be included in water decision making,” said Walton Family Foundation environment program director Moira Mcdonald.

“The Tribal Water Institute helps fill a critical gap. It will provide legal support, train water attorneys, develop policy ideas, and educate state and federal decision makers,” said NARF staff attorney David Gover. By increasing law and policy expertise within Tribal Nations, we can help Indian Country ensure water is available for generations to come.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/NinaHenry)