Developers have proposed a project for a remote region of the Grand Canyon that has members of the Navajo Nation divided in opinion.
The scenic spot where the Colorado and Little Colorado Rivers meet, known as the Confluence, would be the site of a planned venture that would build hotels, restaurants and an aerial tram catering to tourists.
The site is located on Navajo land. To the Navajo, the Confluence holds cultural importance and is considered the site where life began.
“They’re going to destroy it. My grandchildren’s kids are not going to see this beautiful area,” said Mari Peyketewa, who raises sheep on the land that has been in her family for generations.
Others worry that the project would disrupt the landscape while draining the area's water supply. Since the Grand Canyon came under federal protection in the 1800s, it has remained largely undeveloped while serving as a destination for hikers and sightseers around the world.
The Colorado River currently provides drinking water to more than 30 million people, according to Superintendent of Grand Canyon National Park David Uberuaga.
Other residents think the increase in tourist traffic through the area could pose an economic benefit to the reservation, where some residents live without running water or electricity. Resident Larry Hanks said he supports the project because he wants to see the area improve for his daughter.
Warm up questions
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Where is the Grand Canyon?
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What do we know about the Navajo Indian tribe?
Critical thinking questions
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What are some of the problems facing Navajo reservations, according to the report?
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How would the proposed project affect the Navajo who live in the region?
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What are some of the pros and cons of the project? How do developers decide which of those to prioritize?
