California approves return of 136-acre coastal property to tribal stewardship
Transfer marks the first return of Caltrans-managed land to Indigenous tribes
California has approved the transfer of 136 acres of Blues Beach and surrounding Mendocino County bluffs to Kai Poma, a nonprofit founded by representatives of the Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians, Round Valley Indian Tribes and Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, according to The Los Angeles Times. The transfer marks the first time land managed by the California Department of Transportation has been returned to Indigenous tribes.
The property south of Westport was purchased by California in the 1960s during the expansion of Highway 1, according to The Los Angeles Times reporting. The California Transportation Commission approved the transfer June 26, clearing the final regulatory step before the deed is recorded. Kai Poma plans to conduct cultural and archaeological resource studies and environmental surveys, and develop a resource management plan while maintaining public access from sunrise to sunset.
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