WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The Navajo Tribal Utility Authority has lifted the public health advisory for the Moenkopi Wash following a wastewater overflow near the Tuba City Wastewater Treatment Plant in Tuba City, Ariz.
Recent water quality tests confirm that E. coli levels are now well below permit limits, and the wash no longer poses a risk to public health, livestock, or wildlife.
The incident was first reported on February 27, 2026, when untreated wastewater reached the Moenkopi Wash approximately five miles southwest of the intersection of State Route 264 and U.S. 160.
Residents downstream were advised to avoid contact with the water and to keep pets and livestock away while cleanup, containment, and monitoring efforts were underway.
Following continued testing and mitigation measures, the advisory was officially lifted on March 6, 2026, and community members may now resume normal activities in the area. Ongoing monitoring will ensure water quality remains within safe standards.
“Protecting the health of our communities and the integrity of our water systems is a top priority,” said President Nygren. “I appreciate the patience and cooperation of our residents while this issue was addressed. Incidents like this remind us that continued investment in modern wastewater infrastructure is critical to prevent future overflows and safeguard our environment for generations to come.”
The Navajo Tribal Utility Authority (NTUA) responded immediately to contain the overflow and coordinate monitoring and remediation efforts. The authority continues to monitor water quality and provide updates to the public.
President Nygren and NTUA’s General Manager Walter Haase have also advocated for federal support to modernize water and wastewater infrastructure serving Navajo communities.
During recent meetings in Washington, D.C., they met with Christopher McLean of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Utilities Service to explore financing opportunities for critical infrastructure improvements.
Discussions focused on expanding access to USDA programs that provide financial assistance for water and wastewater systems, electric power, telecommunications, and broadband services. These programs aim to expand economic opportunities, reduce utility costs, and improve quality of life for rural families, farmers, and ranchers.
Providing safe drinking water and sanitary waste disposal is essential to protecting public health and supporting sustainable community growth. Across the Navajo Nation, aging sewer lagoon infrastructure and continued population growth make upgrading wastewater treatment facilities increasingly urgent.
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