About:
The Village of Moencopi (Lower) is a Hopi community located at the northwestern extent of the Hopi Reservation south of Tuba City in northeastern Arizona. Arizona State Highways 160 & 264 intersect within and divide the three communities of Tuba city, Upper Moenkopi and the Village of Moencopi (Lower) as well as the Navajo and Hopi Reservations. Tuba City lies within the boundaries of the Navajo Reservation while the two villages of Upper Moenckopi and the Village Moencopi (Lower) lie within the Hopi reservation.
The Village of Moencopi (Lower) was founded as an outgrowth of the Hopi Village of Oraibi in 1906, on Third Mesa 50 miles east. Farming and sheep grazing were the main uses of land until 1910 when cattle was introduced into the range land. Moencopi translates to flowing waters because of the wash they settle nearby, and have many natural artesian springs on their village lands. The lower village is and maintains the traditional ways where over 50% of the homes have no running water and electricity. As the lower village grew, the Upper Village of Moenkopi was established. The Upper village has provided all the amenities of infrastructure of water, sewer, electricity, propane, paved roads, etc. There are terrae gardens east of the village and the entire valley below the village is corn fields and is planted today as farmed land.
The Village of Moencopi (Lower) is governed by a Board of Directors and developed administrative support through hired staff in the late 1990’s. Autonomy has always been paramount. It is the Villages’ desire to enhance self-sufficiency and self-sustenance by building a strong foundation for Village self-governance through its Board of Directors, Standing committees, and Administrative staff. Community involvement is of high priority in determining needs and services by working cohesively in harmony is a strong community value.
Year Supported: 2026
Grant Type: Protection of water
Location: Hopi, AZ