In celebration of World Water Day 2026, NARF Staff Attorney Daniel Cordalis shares recent water work, including case work highlights, the Tribal Water Institute story, and key issues we are tracking for Tribal Nations this year. NARF is privileged to be supporting Tribal Nations in their pursuit to protect and assert their water rights.
Although hydroelectric energy has long been touted as a “clean” energy, hydropower projects have devastated Tribal Nations’ treaty-protected rights and resources—particularly salmon and other endangered fish species runs. This overview provides a starting point for Tribal Nations seeking to engage.
After graduating cum laude from Vassar with a BA in Urban Studies, Ada began her professional career as a land use planner in Bozeman, Montana. She earned a law degree from
The Implementation Project (TIP) advances the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples through education and advocacy. A joint initiative of NARF and Colorado Law, TIP works closely with Indigenous Peoples, including American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian leaders in international, domestic, and Tribal forums where the Declaration is a key tool for accomplishing their objectives.
Tribal Nations in Oklahoma face many water quality and quantity issues. Not only is the state coming off a five-year drought, but flooding is also frequent. Surface water quality is poor because of agricultural runoff and algal blooms.
Sue joined NARF as a staff attorney in 2012. While working in private practice, prior to joining NARF, Sue teamed with NARF to work on behalf of the Nez Perce Tribe in the Snake
The Bay Mills Indian Community, Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians, and Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi filed notice on December 22, 2023, that they will appeal the Michigan Public Service Commission’s (MPSC) recent approval of a permit for Canadian oil giant Enbridge to build the Line 5 tunnel project beneath the Straits of Mackinac.
Wesley James Furlong is dedicated to protecting Tribal cultural resources and traditional cultural places and landscapes. Wesley often represents Tribes, Tribal
Six Michigan Tribes withdrew from Line 5 federal discussions after learning that the US Army Corps of Engineers will likely fast-track its approval for Enbridge...
