Our Mission
The mission of the Branch of Water Resources is to administer the Water Resources programs for the purpose of managing, conserving, and utilizing Reservation water resources. The mission is also to provide the necessary technical research, studies, and other information for Indian Tribes and Alaska Natives to serve as informed and prudent managers of adjudicated, decreed, or otherwise appurtenant water that affects Tribal or Indian trust lands including public domain allotments.
The Branch of Water Resources partners with Conservation Legacy to sponsor Bureau of Indian Affairs WaterCorps:
Over the course of 26 weeks, BIA WaterCorps members will support a variety of water related projects stationed a varying host sites across the country to help meet the project needs of the host site. Upon successful completion of the position, Members will receive an AmeriCorps Education Award.
* Applications for 2026 positions are open now! When applying, please be sure to have an updated resume, a cover letter and a copy of your Tribal ID or Certificate of Indian Blood showing that you are enrolled in a federally recognized Indian Tribe, Band, or Village; or Alaska Native.
2026 BIA Position Openings
Navajo Nation Department of Water Resources, Water Management Branch: Fort Defiance, AZ - APPLY HERE
Fish and Wildlife Assistant FWS, Lander Fish & Wildlife Conservation Office: Lander, WY - APPLY HERE
Fisheries Technician, Sitka Tribe of Alaska - Sitka, AK APPLY HERE
Who We Serve
The Branch of Water Resources (WR) funds and administers water resource programs for Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). WR assists in managing the following programs: the Water Rights Negotiation/Litigation Program; the Water Management, Planning, and Pre-Development Program; Attorney Fees and Litigation Support Program; Tribal Priority Allocations (TPA) for Water Resources; and Indian Land and Water Settlement Claims.
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About the Branch of Water Resources
As part of the central office Division of Water and Power, the Branch of Water Resources provides policy, oversight, and support to BIA regional offices, local BIA agencies, and Tribes.
Water resources technical assistance and coordination is provided to Tribes by water resource personnel at BIA regional offices and local BIA agencies. When contacting your local BIA office or agency for support, water resource personnel may also be organized under the local Division of Natural Resources departments.
