The Navajo Nation Storage Tank Program protects public health and the environment from the risks associated with leaking underground and aboveground storage tanks (referred to collectively as “storage tanks”). Leaking storage tanks can contaminate soil and water and pose fire hazards. The Storage Tank Program staff work with owners and operators of storage tanks to reduce these risks through proper installation, maintenance, operation, closure and post-closure care of storage tanks. 

Owners and operators of storage tanks located on the Navajo Nation must meet the requirements of the Navajo Nation Underground and Aboveground Storage Tank Act (“Storage Tank Act”) and related regulations. These laws are implemented and enforced by the Navajo Nation Storage Tank Program. Owners and operators must comply with the environmental requirements of both the Navajo Nation and the federal government, but often these are the same. Owners and operators also must comply with other Navajo Nation environmental laws, as applicable, and business site leasing laws. For more information on Navajo Nation Storage Tank laws see the Storage Tank Laws section. 

The Navajo people have a deep connection to the land and take the lead in the protection of its environment and its people. The Navajo world view is a holistic one in which all living things—people, plants, animals, mountains, and Earth itself—are related to one another. The interrelatedness of all creation is recognized through daily prayer offerings and ceremonies. The purpose of Navajo life is to maintain balance between the individual and the universe and to live in harmony with nature and the Creator. In order to achieve this goal, the Navajo people have a responsibility to care for the land, plants, and water which are extensions of the individual and are an integral part of tribal identity and tradition. The Navajo culture relies on that connection for its survival and continued well-being. It is therefore imperative to prevent storage tank leaks in order to protect water, soil, and habitat. Navajo ceremonial practitioners use specific sources of natural spring water, feathers from specific birds, and pelts and oils from specific animals in religious and ceremonial observances. Numerous plants and insects are also used for traditional medicines. When a storage tank does leak, the contaminated area must be restored to pristine conditions because of the importance of the environment to these religious ceremonies and to the Navajo Nation.