Tohono O’odham Nation

Protecting the Desert, Protecting Their Rights

Taking a Stand Against the Borderwall!

Last week we shared the environmental and wildlife damage caused by the ongoing construction of the border wall—an unnecessary project pushed forward despite widespread opposition from environmental groups across the country fighting to stop this destruction.

Now, in a major development, the Tohono O’odham Nation has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to stop wall construction on tribal lands along the U.S.–Mexico border. (If you visit the Homeland Security website, be prepared — it’s startling to see a taxpayer‑funded agency so heavily based on fear, distortion, and division.)

Nation leaders say they were forced to act after learning DHS is preparing to award construction contracts on reservation land. The Nation shares 62 miles of border with Mexico and has long cooperated with federal agencies on border security, including vehicle barriers, patrol roads, surveillance towers, and other enforcement measures—always with the understanding that a permanent wall would not be built on their land.

The lawsuit argues that a wall would violate the Nation’s sovereignty by seizing tribal land and resources, shrinking the reservation, and allowing federal contractors to enter without authorization. It also warns that construction would damage sacred sites and disrupt cultural and religious practices.

Chairman Verlon Jose said the Nation has repeatedly sought alternative security approaches and supports modern technologies and personnel—not a physical wall cutting through tribal lands. The Nation also notes that illegal crossings on the reservation have already dropped by more than 95% over the past two years due to existing measures and federal policy.

The LDA stands with the Tohono O’odham Nation and deeply appreciates their unwavering commitment to protecting their land, sovereignty, and cultural traditions for future generations. Their lawsuit continues this proud legacy of defending their homeland and the traditions that define it.

Update!

TEP Copper World Power Plan

June 22nd Town Meeting

Review Save the Scenic Santa Ritas latest news release on the outcome of the June 22nd Sahuarita Town Council meeting.

For additional information, visit the SSSR website and the June 11th LDA newsletter, where shared findings from SSSR show that the Town of Sahuarita held undisclosed meetings with Tucson Electric Power (TEP) about a proposed Santa Rita Substation.

Photo: Electrical Engineering Portal

Marana’s July 21 Primary Candidates Have Sharply Different Views on Key Proposals

Arizona Luminaria, a nonprofit newsroom dedicated to truly local news and community-centered journalism, has just released a detailed election guide outlining where Marana’s incumbent mayoral and council members differ from their challengers on two major issues shaping this year’s primary: the proposed 600‑acre data center and the potential ICE detention facility.

The guide shows how the two groups offer sharply contrasting views on growth, water and power demands, neighborhood impacts, transparency, and Marana’s long‑term direction.

The article compiles each candidate’s own statements, giving voters a clear look at how they explain and justify their positions. Read the full guide to explore these differences and make an informed decision ahead of the July 21, 2026 primary. Then cast your vote for the candidates who best reflect your priorities and vision for Marana.

NOTE:

Even though this is a primary election, independent voters can vote by either requesting a nonpartisan office-only ballot or by asking for a ballot for one of the listed parties. For more information, contact the Pima County Recorder's Office or call 520-724-4330 to request a ballot by phone.

Home Energy Storage Is Shifting in Southern Arizona—

Here’s What Homeowners

Should Know

Jeff Packard, co‑owner of Peoples Power, a solar energy solutions company serving Southern Arizona, has provided the following information to LDA members to help explain the region’s changing energy landscape and the growing role of home battery storage.

***

As Southern Arizona faces more extreme weather, grid strain, and periodic outages, home battery storage is becoming an increasingly important part of the regional energy conversation. Modern battery systems can often be added to existing solar installations, allowing homeowners to store excess daytime production for use at night, during peak‑rate periods, or during outages such as those that occurred during the most recent monsoons.

Declining utility export rates are also reshaping the economics of residential solar. Instead of sending surplus energy back to the grid for low compensation, stored energy can be used later when electricity costs more. Some utilities now offer optional Virtual Power Plant (VPP) programs that compensate homeowners for sharing stored energy during high‑demand events, though many prefer to reserve their battery capacity for personal use.

Utilities have also introduced “backup safety switch” incentives, offering system discounts of up to $3,000, which can be passed directly to customers. Plus, a new program now provides an up‑front 30% discount off retail pricing, replacing the federal tax credit that expired at the end of 2025. This has quickly become the most common path for homeowners considering storage.

***

Special thanks to Jeff Packard for providing this important information. All of these developments point to a growing need for homeowners to understand how battery storage can support reliability, resilience, and smarter energy use across Southern Arizona: Keeping our Desert and Community Livable and Thriving.

Visit www.peoplespower.solar for more information,

reviews and a photo gallery.

Do your homework, learn about options, and make an informed decision.

Erin Brockovich Takes on a New National Issue: Data Centers

You might remember Erin Brockovich as the 1990s environmental advocate whose work led to the landmark $333 million settlement against PG&E for groundwater contamination in Hinkley, California. Today, she has turned her attention to a rapidly expanding threat across the United States: the unchecked growth of data centers.

Through the Brockovich AI Data Center Reporting initiative, she is compiling and publishing verified information on the impact these facilities have on communities. The platform tracks critical data points including water consumption, e‑waste, noise, energy demand, local legislation, and community actions. It also features a comprehensive, continually updated map of operational, under‑construction, and proposed data centers—built from reports submitted by more than 6,500 communities nationwide.

Because many data centers advance with minimal public notice or transparency, the site also provides a reporting tool for residents to flag new or unlisted facilities, especially those that appear “overnight.”

Brockovich’s new effort is a powerful, accessible resource for anyone seeking clear, factual information about the environmental and community impacts of data center expansion. It’s well worth exploring.

Click here to review a Amanpour and Company interview and listen to Brockovich’s own words on this topic and her organization.

Gardening in the Desert:

Easier & More Colorful

Than You Think

Gardening in the desert might look intimidating — we’ve got the full “death‑star” sun, long dry spells, sudden storms, and temperatures that can’t make up their mind. But as Deane, creator of Southwest Gardener, loves to remind people, desert gardening isn’t harder than gardening anywhere else… it’s just different. And once you learn the rhythm, it becomes incredibly rewarding.

Southwest Gardener is a local, desert‑savvy resource built to help you grow confidently in our unique climate. With the right information, you can absolutely create a beautiful, low‑maintenance garden — one filled with trees, shrubs, succulents, and flowers in every color of the rainbow. Yes, cactus and gravel are classics, but they’re only the beginning.

Whether you’re a casual gardener who just wants to keep your plants alive or a full‑on plant enthusiast ready to experiment, Southwest Gardener has something for you. And if you want easy, friendly guidance delivered right to you, the best way to stay connected is by signing up for Deane’s weekly newsletter.



Desert gardening is a journey — and a fun one. With the right tips, you’ll be amazed at what thrives here.

Important July 21st Primary Election Action Dates

Next month is the 2026 Primary Election. Your chance to make your voice heard by voting for the candidates that best represents you. VOTE!

Here are some important dates to remember.

• Wednesday, June 24: Early Voting begins/ Early Ballots mailed -
• Sites will be closed on Friday, July 3, in honor of Independence Day.
• Friday, July 10: Last day to request Mail Ballot.
• Tuesday, July 14: Recommended deadline to mail back your ballot.
• Tuesday, July 21: Election Day

For more information, contact the Pima County Recorder's Office or

call 520-724-4330