Navajo

After the Animas River spill, rancher Irving Shaggy is forced to travel a 70-mile round trip to get water for his livestock. "It's going to be a long struggle," he says.

Navajo Nation Farmers Feel The Weight Of Colorado Mine Spill

6:30am August 18, 2015

by Laurel Morales

The spill of heavy metals into the Animas River has contaminated water for hundreds of farmers in the Navajo Nation downstream, bringing up memories of past environmental disasters.

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Shannon Rivers, a member of the Akimel O'odham tribe, lights a fire for the purification ceremony at the Coconino County jail. Inmates will help him put blankets over the sweat lodge structure, place heated rocks inside and pour water over them.

Many Native American Communities Struggle With Effects Of Heroin Use

2:53pm May 20, 2015

by Laurel Morales

Native Americans have some of the highest substance abuse rates compared to other ethnic groups. Alcohol and meth are the drugs of choice. Now, cartels are taking advantage of lax police enforcement.

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This solar panel unit cost about $17,000, less than half as much as it costs to extend the electrical grid a mile. Thompson pays the power company $75 a month to maintain and service the unit.

National

Solar Power Makes Electricity More Accessible On Navajo Reservation

9:39pm April 21, 2015

by Ibby Caputo

The panels, funded by government grants, are helping thousands of tribal residents take advantage of the everyday luxuries enjoyed by other Americans — like turning on lights or storing food.

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A price comparison of Spam and fresh fruit in a grocery store in Navajo Nation. According to the Diné Community Advocacy Alliance, the vast majority of the inventory at reservation stores would be considered "junk food" under the new tax law.

Navajos Fight Their Food Desert With Junk Food And Soda Taxes

4:57pm April 01, 2015

by Eliza Barclay

Many have dreamed of taxing Cheetos and soda. The Navajo Nation is now doing both. The first-in-the U.S. tax measure aims to raise revenue for health programs and make wholesome food more affordable.