The Native American voice in United States water rights

The definitive peer-reviewed and edited version of this article is published in Journal of Water Sanitation and Hygiene for Development 5(2), pp.173-182, 2015 http://dx.doi.org/10.2166/washdev.2015.089 and is available at www.iwapublishing.comThere is a sacred relationship between Native Americans and the environment. The importance of those sacred beliefs in water rights in the United States (US) is examined through a series of case studies. A thorough review of available literature displays a trend toward less dependence on the US for representation and a greater recognition of Native American traditions. The increased role of Native Americans in water rights quantification and resource development provides greater appreciation and understanding of their traditions and beliefs