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Tribal OVERVIEW

COMMUNITIES OF THE SOUTHWEST

Throughout history, Tribes of the Southwest have stewarded and adapted to the environment. However, changes to water systems, landscapes and ecosystems, in combination with socio-economic and political factors, can amplify Tribal communities' vulnerabilities to climate variability. While Tribal nations face unique challenges linked to a shifting climate, their deep connection to the natural world shapes their livelihoods, cultural identity and the ceremonial practices that can help keep Tribal members rooted in systems that support resilience in times of crisis. 

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a serene desert landscape at sunrise. The foreground prominently features a cluster of cacti, glowing with the soft golden light of the early morning sun. In the background, layers of mountain ranges fade into the distance under a clear sky. The rugged terrain is dotted with sparse desert vegetation.

 

Tribal map for SW

Image Credit: Bureau of Indian Affairs
The SW CASC covers the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Western, Pacific, and Navajo regions.

In the Southwest, Tribes are already experiencing a range of impacts that can be associated with climate change. These effects include:

  1. Major water supply and water quality issues in the context of prolonged drought.
  2. Loss of ecosystem services and reduced ability to grow or collect important traditional foods, plants, and other raw materials.
  3. Increased impacts to forest resources from large and landscape-transforming wildfires due to drought, aridity, and insect infestations.
  4. Health impacts from heat waves, dust storms, and smoke from wildfires; and the potential spread of infectious diseases from geographic shifts in disease vectors.

 

ute petroglyphs in Arches National Park, Utah. The rock surface is cracked and weathered

Tribal Projects

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Projects and Publications

Michelle Baker and another person in a canoe on a lake

Tribal Events

Learn more about tribal events being hosted in the Southwest!

Event Calendar

Photo taken after the fruit has been harvested from the cactus.

Tribal Resources

Find out more about present and past Tribal news!

Tribal Resources

The SW CASC acknowledges that Tribes not only in the Southwest, but across the nation, are leading the way in addressing climate variability through adaptation planning and mitigation efforts. The innovative strategies influenced by traditional knowledge will advance the actions taken to address a shifting climate. The SW CASC continuously works to collaborate, partner, and support Tribes in their efforts.

The SW CASC not only continues to engage with Tribal partners, but also provides support through funding opportunities that help support Tribal communities in mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts. Our team aims to provide information, technical assistance, and access to subject matter experts necessary to support local climate resilience research, planning, and implementation efforts.

Current Tribal News

Our team works across the SW CASC region of California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona to connect 159 Federally Recognized Tribal Nations to tools, information, and other climate resilience resources. For more information, contact swcasc@arizona.edu.