SOLUTIONS TO A LACK OF ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER ON THE NAVAJO NATION
Building on successful pilot projects last summer, Forgotten People and its project partners will expand the delivery of hauled water with a 1,600-gallon water trailer together with additional rainwater harvesting systems in selected sites. These employ an innovative low-tech approach to eliminate chemical and microbial contamination. The revolutionary filtration system developed by Global Access 2030 will ensure that consumed water is safe for sanitation, hygiene and even for drinking. Our initial surveys showed that harvested monsoon rainwater is free of dust-borne uranium and arsenic contamination.
These people will hopefully touch the heart of the scientific community to see the unsustainable and deadly legacy of resource extraction. Working in indigenous communities presents unique challenges, yet collaboration between scientific, academic and grassroots organizations can transform challenges into solutions. Building trust, respect for cultural sensitivities along with community liaisons and translators is crucial. Success also hinges on community involvement; without it, external efforts can falter.
Forgotten People’s key project partners Water Resource Action Project, Navajo Technical University, Native American Emergency Relief, GA 2030 and other supporting national organizations and corporate sponsors, demonstrate that with respect and collaboration even the most difficult obstacles can be overcome.