| PROJECT SUMMARY |
| The project was designed to reduce risk in crop production for small irrigating farmers in the Navajo Nation. This was accomplished through the establishment of pilot water users associations to more carefully manage water supplies in small watersheds throughout the Nation. The formation of water user associations is expected to improve water control and conservation over time, thereby opening up opportunities for the marketing of a wider selection of Native American crops for local consumption. Increased legal independence and autonomy in local decision-making concerning irrigation management is expected to reduce dependency on tribal resources and qualify the irrigators for more grant assistance programs through USDA and other types of farm assistance programs. The project utilized as training venues successful small irrigation districts, mutual water companies and acequias located off the Navajo Reservation (i.e., in Colorado and New Mexico). Thirty-four farmers were trained through study tours to these neighboring organizations. |
| NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: 34 |
| TOPICS COVERED |
| Product and enterprise diversification |
| Marketing strategies, plans and clubs |
| Financial records, analysis, and bench-marking |
| Leases, contracts and negotiation |
| Business and strategic planning |
| Ability to manage changes in policy and regulation |
