The Coeur d’Alene Tribe and the State of Idaho have finalized a significant water rights settlement, concluding decades of negotiations over federal reserved water rights for the Tribe. The agreement aims to protect water resources in Coeur d’Alene and ensure reliability for users throughout North Idaho.
A signing ceremony took place in Boise with Governor Brad Little, tribal leaders, and Attorney General Raul Labrador present. The process began with adjudication of water rights in North Idaho in 2008 and involved extensive collaboration among various parties.
“This agreement is the product of generations of Tribal members and leaders who laid the groundwork to protect Coeur d’Alene Lake and other water resources for future generations. As the late Tribal leader Felix Aripa often said, ‘water is the life of all of us.’ Through hard work and constant dedication, we’ve been able to reach an agreement that not only protects our Tribal homelands but ensures water reliability for everyone throughout North Idaho,” said Coeur d’Alene Tribal Chairman Chief Allan.
Governor Little stated, “This historic water rights agreement delivers certainty for water users and lasting protection for Coeur d’Alene Lake and everyone who depends on it. After years of hard work, we are proud to stand alongside Chief Allan and tribal leaders to mark this milestone. Countless partners came together to forge a balanced, durable solution that strengthens water reliability and benefits all of North Idaho.”
Attorney General Raul Labrador added, “This settlement is a massive win for all north Idaho families, businesses, and communities who depend on reliable water. For over a decade, this litigation created uncertainty for cities, farms, and employers across the basin. Courts had already held that the tribe was entitled to certain water rights on the Reservation that could affect the region. This settlement avoids continued litigation, protects existing water rights, secures water for future growth, and it is a win for all parties.”
Other stakeholders also participated in finalizing this agreement. Water Court Special Master Ted Booth facilitated its negotiation.
Governor Little’s office supports legislative sessions as well as policy initiatives aimed at advancing state goals across Idaho (official website). The Office promotes community engagement through public input while highlighting achievements statewide (official website). In addition to fostering an environment where future generations choose to remain in Idaho (official website), it provides services such as scheduling requests or handling public records (official website). Governor Little has served as governor overseeing these efforts (official website).
