The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has awarded the first state brownfields grant to a tribal nation.

The $5,500 grant will allow the Colorado River Indian Tribes to conduct an environmental assessment on property known as Mosquito Flats in La Paz County. The 11-acre area of tribal land is south of Blue Water Lagoon Resort/Park in Parker.

Stormwater has caused a potential for petroleum contamination, plus pooling water creates a mosquito-breeding habitat on the site.

With the official state brownfield designation for Mosquito Flats, the community can apply for other funding to help revitalize, enhance and protect the environment and public health for the community.

“We are pleased to have the ability to expand this opportunity to tribes, and we hope that they will reach out to us and find out how to apply,” Ian Bingham, ombudsman and tribal liaison at ADEQ, said.