Indigenous tribes within the southwestern US, led by the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT), have granted the Colorado River authorized personhood to assist defend it for future generations. In November 2025, the CRIT, made up of the Mojave, Hopi, Navajo and Chemehuevi tribes, handed the decision recognising the river as a residing, life-giving entity with rights like an individual.
The Colorado River is at the moment dealing with the worst drought in 1,200 years.
The seven US states that share the river have till 14 February to succeed in a brand new water sharing settlement earlier than present ones expires on the finish of 2026, or the federal authorities will step in with their very own plan. CRIT consider that personhood standing will probably be a begin to assist defend the river.