Black Mesa extends into both the Diné [Navajo] and Hopi reservations, in northeastern Arizona. This area has been the center of many environmental and social injustices. The continued destruction of Diné and Hopi traditional homelands is endangering the cultural survival of our people and is largely contributing to the many challenges our youth face.



Since 1965 Peabody Western Coal Company has been operating two strip mines on Black Mesa. Together, these mines constitute one of the most extensive strip mining operations in the United States.



Each year Peabody Coal Company pumps more than 4,500 acre-feet of pristine Navajo and Hopi drinking water from the "N-Aquifer". Peabody uses this pristine water supply simply to mix with crushed coal-called "slurry". This "slurry" is then pumped through a pipeline over 275 miles to the Mohave Generating Station in Nevada.



Black Mesa Water Coalition [BMWC] has been working to end Peabody Coal Company’s wasteful use of scarce & sacred ground-water. BMWC is calling for a transition to renewable energy practices and sources. BMWC is calling for a transition to more sustainable employment and economic sources.



It is the responsibility of us all to begin transitioning to a future more sustainable; and a lifestyle that is, at the very least, more conscious of our Mother Earth’s scarce and precious resources.